Baselworld responds to Swatch Group exit

Baselworld has openly responded to Swatch Group's exit from the annual fair, and attempted to show its continued relevance by announcing new details about the format and layout for next year's edition In a statement to the press, Baselworld expresses its disappointment but denies that Swatch Group was not kept informed about its plans to improve the show in 2019 René Kamm, chief executive officer of the MCH Group, which runs Baselworld, shares: "We extraordinarily regret Swatch Group's decision.

The cancellation is all the more surprising for us because this news reaches us at a point in time when new management has arrived with a new team, new esprit and many new ideas." He shares: "We want to conduct the fair in 2019 as attractively as possible, in a new style and with a new way of thinking With this in mind, I hope that a successful edition of Baselworld in 2019 will motivate Swatch Group to again participate in the show in the future I personally would be very pleased to hold constructive talks with Swatch Group" Looking ahead, Baselworld has revealed a revised focus on communication and hospitality, alongside new plans to keep the exhibition fresh and relevant.

On the jewellery side, a new 'Show Plaza' in Hall 1.2, will bring together the best jewellery manufacturers, while a 240° catwalk with numerous LED screens will make it possible to display jewellery in new innovative ways Mr Loris-Melikoff insists these new ideas were all developed in coordination with Baselworld's exhibitors. . Source