The latest edition of the prestigious Jewellery Boutique Show, Vicenzaoro September 2024, wrapped up on a high note, celebrating 70 years of gold fairs in Vicenza.
The event, which spanned from 6 to 10 September, reaffirmed its status as a key player in the global gold and jewelry industry. With over 1,200 exhibitors, including 40% international brands, and buyers from 60 countries, the show showcased extreme heights of luxury, craftsmanship, and innovation.
A significant focus at Vicenzaoro September 2024 was the potential of Artificial Intelligence in the jewelry sector and the critical importance of skills and training for professionals in the gold and jewelry industry. These themes were highlighted during a talk led by Steven Tranquilli, Director of Federpreziosi Confcommercio Imprese per l’Italia, where Guido Di Fraia, Founder and CEO of the IULM AI Lab, emphasized that understanding AI is crucial for leveraging it effectively. Industry leaders discussed how AI is revolutionizing decision-making, creativity, and market relations, making it an indispensable tool for enhancing competitiveness. This technological advancement also underscores the need for investing in expert training to manage these new systems effectively.
Training and employment opportunities for young professionals were also at the forefront, with a dedicated event on the third day of the show. The focus was on nurturing new talent to meet the evolving demands of the industry, with strong support from local companies and educational institutions. The event, promoted by CPV (Veneto Productivity Centre), highlighted the successful collaboration between businesses and students, ensuring that the next generation of goldsmiths is well-equipped with the innovative skills needed for the future.
Notable highlights at the show included insightful talks on the future of luxury, where creativity and technology intersect, shaping a new era of experiential consumption. The “Wonderland” event, featuring industry leaders like Paola De Luca and Lorraine West, explored how the joy economy and storytelling are redefining luxury.
The VO’Clock Privé, a concurrent event dedicated to watch enthusiasts, was another major attraction. Visitors were treated to hands-on experiences with leading brands, workshops on watch photography, and deep dives into the intricacies of horology. The event highlighted not just the craftsmanship of timepieces but also their place in the evolving narrative of luxury.
The Intesa Sanpaolo survey presented during the event revealed optimism in the industry, with one in three jewelry companies expecting increased turnover in 2024. Sustainability also took center stage, with companies showcasing efforts to reduce their environmental impact and promote ethical practices.
Vicenzaoro September 2024 was a preview of the future of luxury, where tradition and innovation meet, and the global jewelry and watchmaking communities come together to set new standards, solidifying its reputation as the new home for the jewelry industry.