Asian Star, Divine Solitaires point to increased footfalls and an upward trend on last day of IIJS at JWCC 

Both brands appreciated the smooth functioning of this year’s edition of the jewellery show while discussing how their business fared in terms of increased enquiries and serious buyers  

Mumbai: The 40^th edition of IIJS has brought more hope to the solitaire and diamond market after a slightly muted period that many entities from the industry experienced in the last few months. As on the last day of the India International Jewellery Show at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, Divine Solitaires Pvt Ltd and Asian Star Co. Ltd. shared their views on what this year’s trade show meant for them. 

Jignesh Mehta, founder and managing director of Divine Solitaires, (Pavilion Hall, Stall No. JIO-K 17H), commented on the success of the show, the facilities and the management. “This time, IIJS has been fantastic for us. Everything was well-managed, and we got some excellent responses overall. This happened to be a great time for all our associates as well as some new prospective associates to come over and meet us.” 

According to Premal Choksi, Senior Manager, Sales, Asian Star Co. Ltd., (Pavilion Hall, Stall No. JIO-J 17A), the trade show has been a good experience in terms of buying and inquiries of loose diamonds. “We received quite a lot of enquiries on all days and as we are towards the end of the show, it reflects the positive sentiment of the market.” 

For Asian Star, the southern and eastern regions of India have demonstrated a robust and consistent buying pattern, indicating strong demand in these areas. However, the brand has also noticed purchasing potential from international buyers, particularly from the USA and Europe, over the past few days. 

A pleasant experience for the brands not only ensured a positive atmosphere but also contributed to increased footfall at their respective booths. This was particularly significant as retail buyers are actively preparing for the upcoming season of festivals and weddings in India, leading to a surge in demand and interest in the products and services being showcased. 

In terms of foot traffic, both Divine Solitaires and Asian Star reported a significant increase compared to last year’s show. While the latter experienced a 15-20% rise in booth visits over the previous year, reflecting a growing interest in their offerings, the former observed an even more substantial boost, with a 25-40% increase in the number of visitors to their booth, including their existing partner jewellers and potential new partners. 

Choksi commented that the recent reduction in customs duty for gold would certainly help the market in the coming days. However, he pointed out that reduced manufacturing in the entire market in the last few months of lean season could result in a shortage of polished diamonds. But there is a general sentiment that the market will pick up after IIJS. 

While the customs duty reduction does not result in a direct impact for Divine Solitaires, Mehta said that the positive psychological change due to the move has boosted buying, stock and marketing investments among their existing and potential partners and associates. 

Written by Aparna Bhowmick 

Retail Jeweller India Exclusive