JCK Las Vegas to Go Ahead

RAPAPORT... The JCK Las Vegas and Luxury shows will take place as planned, their organizer has confirmed, allaying fears the coronavirus would jeopardize the events."At this time of global concern, Reed Exhibitions and Reed Jewelry Group are closely monitoring developments related to the COVID-19 virus," said Sarin Bachmann, Reed Jewelry Group's vice president for the shows, in a statement Tuesday. "Our hearts go out to everyone impacted. The jewelry industry is a tight-knit community, and the well-being of everyone at our JCK events - from our attendees and exhibitors to our staff on-site at every show - is of the utmost importance to us."The main JCK Las Vegas trade fair is due to run from June 2 to 5 at the Nevada city's Sands Expo and The Venetian. The Luxury show will take place from May 31 to June 5 at The Venetian.The venues and show organizers are closely following guidance from authorities, Bachmann explained. There are currently no federal restrictions preventing large events such as trade fairs from taking place, or limiting travel within the US, noted Reed Exhibitions, the parent company of Reed Jewelry Group.Reed Exhibitions has strengthened hygiene, sanitization and the availability of disinfectants at its events across the US, it said in a separate statement. Customers not impacted by travel restrictions are free to participate in its events, it added. However, the US has barred entry to foreign nationals who have visited China in the past 14 days. The coronavirus outbreak has already caused the postponement of this week's Hong Kong trade shows to May, and the cancellation of Baselworld.Image: The 2019 JCK Las Vegas show. (JCK Events)