HKTDC Watch & Clock Fair Draws 17,500 Buyers, a 4.5-percent Increase
September 24, 2012
The five-day HKTDC Watch & Clock Fair ended in early September, with more than 17,500 buyers participating, up 4.5 percent, compared with last year.
Some of the increases came from emerging market buyers that were up significantly, including Iran (up 32 percent), the Chinese mainland (up 17 per cent) and Russia (up 17 percent).
The Hong Kong Trade and Development Council commissioned an independent market survey agency, Actrium Solutions (HK) Ltd, to conduct a survey during the first three days of the fair.
The company interviewed 349 exhibitors and 759 buyers onsite to get their views on such issues as market prospects, product trends and purchasing methods.
The survey found that 75 percent of buyers and 70 percent of exhibitors said they expect better or similar business prospects in 2013.
At the same time, 71 percent of exhibitors and 64 percent of buyers expect production and purchasing costs also will likely rise next year, due to increasing labor costs.
Both groups feel that the China market will remain robust, and are striving to tap this new market. They are also interested in such emerging markets as ASEAN, Central America, Russia, India and the Middle East.
“Seeing relatively higher demand for luxury goods in both the China and Middle East markets, we believe they will be interested in our brand products,” said Iris Chan, marketing manager of Memorigin Trading Company, a Hong Kong exhibitor specializing in the design and manufacture of Tourbillon Watches.
She added that the company plans to explore the Chinese mainland and Middle East markets. “We consulted with five to six Middle Eastern buyers during the first three days of the fair and further negotiations will be arranged,” Chan said.
Exhibitors that have set up factories on the mainland said the costs of labor, land, raw materials, taxation and government charges have increased during the past three years and that they would be forced to raise their prices.
Responding about market trends, those who were surveyed thought that fashion watches would have the best growth potential, while quartz analogue watch and metals watch dial would be best received by the market.
They expect that industry players will develop watch products under brand licensing. The majority of responding buyers (74 percent) are not agents for brand watches, but 30 percent of them plan to be.
Graham Emmott, an Australian buyer, who owns a local retail shop, thought the show’s Small-Order Zone was a very good idea.
“It’s flexible. It helps test market responses and facilitates inventory management,” Emmott said. He located several suppliers willing to accept small orders, and placed a number of orders for brand watches at the fair.
The Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair, which ran Sept. 5-9 at the Hong Kpn Convention and Exhibition Centre, brought together 720 exhibitors from 12 countries and regions. It was organized by the HKTDC, the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Ltd, and The Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades and Industries Ltd.
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.
Add new comment