JCK Revamps, Moves into New Mandalay Bay Convention Center Space
June 9, 2016
JCK Las Vegas, the flagship show of Jewelry Market Week, began its 2016 show June 3 with a revamped shopping experience utilizing the new expansion of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. From the new entrance straight from the parking lot to a redesigned floorplan, it sparkled with jewels and inspiration.
“We had to move 2,000 companies this year because of the upgrades to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center,” said Katie Dominesey, industry Vice president for JCK Las Vegas and JCK Tucson.
She added, “However, we were methodical in placing each product neighborhood and which companies belonged there to ensure the ease of shopping for the buyer. It was important to us that once a buyer finds their desired product neighborhood that the message is consistent and there’s a collection of brands in that area that fit into that identity.”
One new addition was the Bridge neighborhood area, home to fashion jewelry that is more cost conscious, although stylish. The re-imagined Design Center now features three tiers of exhibitors: Kickstarter, Rising Star and Resident, all getting a chance to connect with qualified buyers.
New on-the-show floor programming included “JCK Showcase”, which was at the very front of the new entrance that featured stylists and other influencers and how they merchandise,
Dominesey said. “The feedback has been positive, especially from large brands like Swarovski and Stuller, and solidifies JCK as the destination for US jewelry trade buying.”
A big draw at the massive Italian jewelry industry’s pavilion “VicenzaOro Italian Passion. Made With Love” was a trends display and insightful forecasting talks by industry experts.
JCK Las Vegas came on the heels of LUXURY, a three-day invitation only-event that took over the Mandalay Bay’s ballrooms and a day-long JCK Talks Education Program. For those looking for immediate delivery, the new JIS Exchange was launched at the nearby Tropicana Hotel.
Many exhibitors commented on the disappointing Basilworld Show earlier this year, attributing slumping attendance to Europe’s woes. At the same time, they noted the strong traffic at JCK Las Vegas and an uptick in orders. “Where customers used to order two pieces they now order three,” said exhibitor Roger Pessah with San Francisco-based Elliott Chandler Design.
JCK’s footprint stood at 485,000 net square feet, comparable to previous years with Luxury’s expansion to an additional ballroom in 2016. The show attracted around 21,900 buyers and featured 2,100 exhibitors.
The newly formed Reed Jewelry Group plans to serve as the industry’s top authority and now includes print, digital and event arms. It’s reaching new niche markets through JIC’ three annual Miami shows, Luxury Miami, and JCK Tucson, which now focuses on unique designers.
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.
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