By Cynthia Unninayar
There were plenty of smiles among the exhibitors during the 31st edition of the International Gold, Silver, and Jewellery trade exhibition OroArezzo, held from April 10 to 13th in the Tuscan town of Arezzo. According to fair officials, the show closed with a high level of confidence and motivation, a welcome relief after the last past two difficult years.
“For the first time in a long time,” explains Giovanni Tricca, President of Arezzo Fiere e Congressi, “we can say that things are going in a positive direction. All the signs emerging from OroArezzo will be evaluated and put to good use.” Among the positive signs were a 10 percent increase in the number of exhibitors (453) and a 15 percent increase in the number of qualified buyers (nearly 12,000). Of these, 26 percent were foreign (compared to 20 percent in 2009).
“The productive boost hasn’t just been an emotional one,” adds Raul Barbieri, director of Arezzo Fiere e Congressi. “The exhibitors of OroArezzo have truly received valuable input for 2010, including the necessity of insisting upon universal recognition of the added value of the ‘Made in Italy’ label or else risking a decline in the brand just to satisfy the various needs of international markets. And Arezzo Fiere e Congressi, with its Organizing Committee, will assist companies with their promotional efforts throughout the year, both in Italy and abroad.”
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| SEM-AR, Daniela Coro |
Barbieri adds that the fair has invested a great deal in helping exhibitors, including inviting more than 260 carefully selected international buyers in collaboration with the Italian Trade Commission. These invited guests came from both traditional markets (Europe, USA) and emerging nations (Russia, China, India). “We are a true marketing partner for these businesses, becoming an essential point of reference for anyone operating in the sector.” The commitment of national institutions is also strong, including that of the Ministry of Economic Development—Department for Business and Internationalization, to help Italian companies compete and protect their creations on the international market.
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| Falcinelli, P.V.Z |
Among the many special events that took place during the show was Gold Up, a prestigious event that paired the jewels of the “Oro d’Autore” collection with the designs of 16 of the most elite Italian fashion houses. OroArezzo also hosted the 19th edition of its Première competition. Focusing on design, the event offered buyers the opportunity to preview the stylistic trends and technological innovations of Italian jewellery in terms of products that will be offered for sale later this year. Première also proved to be a testing ground for jewellery designers, as the best pieces were selected by a panel of judges, based on design, practicality for manufacture, and saleability.
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| Graziella |
Clearly, OroArezzo was a definite success for the city of Arezzo, and for its local jewellery industry as well as that for Italy. The 32nd edition will be held again in April 2011.
