The manager behind the upcoming International Jewellery London (IJL) show at Earls Court in September has attributed a rise in exhibitor bookings to an overhaul of features and show layout.

Reed Exhibitions event manager Sam Willoughby said the 2011 event is 70 per cent booked with 324 exhibitors, a 10 per cent year-on-year increase compared to the same time last year. IJL runs from 4 to 7 September.

“We have launched a lot of initiatives at the show in recent years which really add value for both exhibitors and visitors, such as the Editor’s Choice and the Diamond Club, which have brought key buyers and retailers back to the show,” Willoughby told EN.

“We’ve also improved the layout of the show and enhanced the complimentary seminar programme. The knock-on effect is that exhibitors are having a great show each year and seeing the return on their investment.

“The increase in exhibitors is also a reflection of what’s happening in the industry and is hopefully a cautious but definite sign that slowly but surely the market is improving.”

New features planned this year include a new Designer Brands area to showcase established designers looking for a different way to exhibit at the event.

“We will be announcing more features leading up to the event,” Willoughby continued. “These will ultimately arm jewellery retailers with the tools to help them discover their next bestseller and a point of differentiation to their competitors.”

IJL will celebrate its 55th birthday in September, a milestone which will be reflected in a host of other initiatives, Willoughby said. According to ABC figures, the 2010 edition attracted 8,932 attendees.

In January, Reed appointed Vovici to provide a new customer feedback platform for its global events portfolio.

Any news? Email exhibitionnews@mashmedia.net