Baselworld Back in New Format

RAPAPORT... Baselworld will return primarily as a business-to-business platform targeting the mid-range luxury segment, with live events supplementing a digital platform, organizer MCH Group said.MCH will launch the digital platform this fall, and will premiere its live events with a popup in Geneva from August 30 to September 3. The main Basel 2022 show will take place from March 31 to April 4 so the dates will be aligned with other industry trade fairs in Geneva, it said last week. "After the [coronavirus] pandemic had stalled Baselworld over the last two years, we took a lot of time to talk to our partners and exhibitors," explained Michel Loris-Melikoff, the fair's managing director. "One thing became very clear: The Baselworld brand must remain, but it must fundamentally change." The organizer said the Swiss event would now be a platform for smaller watch and jewelry manufacturers and gemstone traders to showcase their products. It will also offer retailers easy access to a diversified group of makers.Baselworld last took place in 2019. The Covid-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 show, while a dispute with exhibitors over refunds led to major exhibitors pulling out of the 2021 event, which MCH ultimately abandoned.Image: Crowds at the Baselworld show. (MCH Group)