MJSA Expo, the longest-running trade show dedicated to jewelry making and design, has secured new dates for its 2020 show, which was postponed in early March due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19 in New York City. The Expo will now run Sunday and Monday, Oct. 25-26, and will once again occupy Hall D in the Javits Center, co-locating with the JA New York Fall retail show.
"We were able to retain the same hall, which will ensure a minimum of disruption for our exhibitors and make for an easier transition," said David W. Cochran, president/CEO of MJSA, the show’s organizer. "Expo will be reduced by a day, but its weekend/weekday balance still provides the greatest flexibility for buyers to schedule appointments and visit."
In addition, MJSA is exploring new online opportunities, such as webcasts, podcasts, and videos, through which Expo exhibitors can promote and educate buyers about their products.
"Face-to-face conversations will always be a critical part of the sales process, and Expo has long played an important role in facilitating such connections," Cochran adds. "Our goal is to expand the ‘Expo experience’ through multiple channels, so buyers and sellers can connect throughout the year."
The postponement of MJSA Expo followed a declared state of emergency by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo in early March, as cases of coronavirus mounted throughout the state. MJSA Expo had been scheduled to run March 15-17 alongside the JA New York Spring show. JA show management announced the cancellation of their spring show shortly after MJSA’s announcement.
"We place the highest importance on the health and well-being of our exhibitors, attendees, and staff," Cochran said in the announcement. "Given Governor Cuomo’s decision...along with the uncertainty about the virus’s progression, we decided to postpone the show until we can be more certain that MJSA Expo can be run both safely and successfully." Many exhibitors, he added, agreed that the move was necessary.
MJSA Expo annually features the leading suppliers of related tools, equipment, supplies, and services. For continuing updates, go to MJSAExpo.org.