Organiser Expertise Events has moved to reschedule the Sydney leg of its upcoming pre-Christmas trade event, Stock Up & Top Up, to Sunday 7 and Monday 8 November at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Darling Harbour.
The event was initially scheduled for 23–24 October, but was changed following the extended COVID-19 restrictions in the city.
In an announcement made yesterday, Gary Fitz-Roy, managing director Expertise Events, reflected on the importance of face-to-face contact, saying, “Isn’t it funny how we come to miss something only after we no longer have it?
“I raise the point because it reflects the sentiments of suppliers who have come to realise how important and enjoyable it is actually meeting with clients.
“We know that because each time we announce new event dates – just as we thought the worst of COVID was over – only to find that the new dates are impacted by new government restrictions, we are inundated with calls and emails from suppliers saying they were looking forward to seeing clients again, face-to-face!”
Fitz-Roy told Jeweller that while the constant changes by various governments were frustrating, “It’s something we all have to live with. I refer to the old quote, ‘There is no failure except in no longer trying.’
“We all must not give up, we must keep trying.”
In the Stock Up & Top Up announcement, Fitz-Roy added, “With Christmas looming, and even with current lockdown restrictions, retailers need to review new products and collections that will be available for the busiest and now the most important sales period in 2021. And they must forward-plan for the annual New Year sales, which are growing in importance.
“The other feedback I continually receive is the desire and need for suppliers to connect with clients before Christmas, which is something we understand and appreciate. It’s even more important for those companies who have not met face-to-face with clients for more than one year and as much as two years!”
Fitz-Roy explained that limited spaces would be available in order to maintain a sensible buyer-to-seller ratio along with offering a cost-effective package.
“We are making it easy for suppliers. Everything is supplied – space, trestle table, corporate signage and chairs and corporate signage are provided – all they have to do is bring their product, and smiley faces along.
“We will help by creating some Christmas goodwill and cheer by hosting Happy Hour Drinks on Sunday night,” he said.
At the time of publication, no further details about the status of the Brisbane Stock Up & Top Up event, scheduled for 9–10 October, had been announced.
More reading:
Sydney jewellery fair cancelled; new events launched for October
Buying group announces pre-Christmas ‘expo’
