Hong Kong Show Runner Unveils Digital Platform

RAPAPORT... Informa Markets, the organizer of the September Hong Kong show, has launched a digital platform enabling the jewelry industry to trade and network outside the context of physical exhibitions.The company behind the annual Jewellery & Gem World Hong Kong fair created the service together with jewelry-technology provider Atelier Technology. The platform will help users make connections and grow their businesses through a virtual channel, the companies said Tuesday. "We strongly believe that digital will enrich our physical exhibitions and empower both exhibitors and buyers to have more efficient meetings," David Bondi, senior vice president of Informa Markets in Asia, said Wednesday. "For our partners, clients and loyal visitors, fusing the digital world with physical shows will open up vast opportunities for business growth, most especially in times of change like these."Platform users will have access to custom digital catalogs and personalized showroom technology that will allow them to present new jewelry collections virtually. The system will also provide a place for buyers to connect with suppliers and brand partners, the companies noted.The first virtual event on the platform is scheduled to take place October 27 to 29. Informa rescheduled the 2020 physical Hong Kong fair due to the coronavirus, and now plans to host it from November 9 to 13. Image: A jewelry display. (Shutterstock)