The 3rd Indo-US Jewellery Business Development Conference that began at Chicago on April 30 has presented participating Indian manufacturers with a chance to interact closely with US retailers, review product lines and discuss business issues facing their respective businesses. Alongside, presentations by industry experts gave participants valuable insights into current market dynamics and the mindset of today’s US consumer.

The BDC was inaugurated on April 30 by chief guest Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, the Consul General at the Indian Consulate in Chicago. He spoke about the growing interaction between businesses in India and the US and felt that events like these would benefit the trade. Dr Sayeed also spoke about how perceptions of India had changed and sentiment was positive. He promised of all possible help for his office to all the participants. A special video message from Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India was also played. Brief remarks by Rick Bannerot and Sohil Kothari followed.

Keynote Speaker Ben Smithee  then addressed the participants discussing “Today's Changing Jewellery Consumer”. He touched upon how technology is affecting day-to-day business and how important it was for the jewellery industry to adopt new developments in the field in various forms.

The second Keynote Address was delivered by Ben Janowski who discussed the “State of the jewellery business”.

Over the next two days, the participating manufacturers and retailers interacted in one-on-one ‘Speed Date’ sessions where they discussed issues related to the American business climate, the emerging jewellery consumers who are being targeted, and the fashion/design elements that drive sales for the retailers and then obviously the manufacturers’ business.

All agreed that the opportunity to review product lines and discuss business issues facing their respective businesses was very valuable.

Further updates on the Conference will follow.