Baselworld 2019 drew to a close yesterday with the organisers revealing that 81,200 visitors had attended the six-day show, 22% fewer than in 2018, but emphasising that this had been a year of transition.

Addressing the concluding press conference yesterday, Michel Loris-Melikoff, Managing Director of Baselworld said that the aim was to transform the show into a digitally driven experience platform from next year. The underlying strategy for the future, details of which were presented through a Vision 2020+ video to exhibitors at the show, was well received, he added.

Numerous exhibitors from all industry segments, who spoke at the press conference via video clips, also reported good business transactions.

Loris-Melikoff further explained that going forward, the objective would be to make Baselworld the most important community for the jewellery and watchmaking industry and transform it from a classic trade fair into an experience platform. According to the organisers, “The target is to offer all participants in the industry – representatives of the watch, jewellery, precious stones and technology sectors as well as journalists, bloggers and influencers, but also dealers and collectors – a digital platform with numerous information, service and networking tools throughout the year. The hospitality programme will also be further expanded.” 

Next year’s show will feature numerous innovations such as new event and experience zones. Among other things, it will also host a Retailer Summit, CEO Talks and a Virtual Reality Zone. Under the re-envisaged hall layout, gemstone exhibitors will move into Hall 2, which will also house an Innovation Square and a large area reserved for smartwatches and wearables.

The organisers are also planning to completely redesign the outside exhibition square making it more interactive. At the same time, the show will open its doors with a special offer specifically for end customers and collectors. Loris-Melikoff concluded: “Our strategy met with strong approval from the exhibitors during the presentations. We will tackle change with vigour and passion”.

The next Baselworld will be held from 30 April to 5 May 2020.