Instore Acquires JA New York Trade Shows, Aims to Revitalize Iconic Event

A New Chapter for a Jewelry Industry Staple

Instore, a leading media and information company for the fine jewelry industry, has announced the acquisition of the JA New York trade shows from Emerald Holding, Inc. This significant move marks a pivotal moment, aiming to restore the iconic event to its former prominence on the industry calendar. The deal, finalized on Tuesday, combines Instore’s deep industry engagement with the legacy of the JA New York shows, which have been a cornerstone of the American fine jewelry trade for over a century.

Strategic Vision for JA New York

Matthijs Braakman, CEO of SmartWork Media and Publisher of Instore, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, 'JA New York exists to serve this industry, and everything we do will be built around that purpose.' Instore plans to maintain both the Spring and Fall editions of the JA New York shows, held annually at the Javits Center in New York City. Braakman highlighted the distinct focus of each show: the Spring edition emphasizes new designs and early line introductions, while the Fall show concentrates on special deliveries and restocking for the crucial fourth-quarter sales period. The summer show, which was discontinued after 2022, will not be revived, a decision attributed to shifts in the market and the presence of other major summer events like JCK Las Vegas.

Experienced Leadership and Industry Dedication

A key aspect of the acquisition is the return of Tobi Smith, a veteran with 33 years of experience at JA New York. Smith will join the Instore team as an account executive. Reflecting on her long tenure, Smith shared, 'My love of the jewelry industry began on 47th Street, and it only deepened when I joined this wonderful event. Thirty-three years later, I could not be more thrilled — or more eager — to work alongside this incredible team. Instore truly understands this crazy, beautiful business.' Instore's commitment is to foster an environment where independent retailers can find solutions, suppliers can forge connections, and the entire jewelry community can grow stronger.

Reimagining the Trade Show Experience

Instore intends to leverage its editorial expertise and trusted industry relationships to reimagine JA New York. Future shows will be designed to be more than just a marketplace, incorporating practical education, peer-to-peer learning, and curated business connections, all centered on the success of independent retailers. Trace Shelton, Editor-in-Chief of Instore, views the acquisition as an opportunity to bring the brand’s signature energy and insights to a major industry stage. 'We’re focused on creating a show where serious buyers connect with exhibitors who are genuinely invested in their success — and where the education and networking Instore is known for take center stage alongside the beautiful jewelry,' Shelton commented. Krista Collins Walters, Associate Publisher of Instore, added that JA New York represents 'a celebration of an industry that has endured and thrived for generations,' emphasizing its role as a hub for connection and innovation in New York City.

Strategic Context and Future Outlook

The acquisition comes at a time when Emerald Holding is undergoing its own significant transition, with plans to be acquired by private equity firm Apollo Funds. Emerald, which also owns the Couture show and antique jewelry shows in Las Vegas and Miami, is divesting JA New York as it focuses on its flagship, high-margin events. Instore, previously a producer of its own Smart Jewelry Show and The Instore Show, has shifted its focus to acquiring and enhancing existing events like JA New York, aligning with its mission to serve the fine jewelry community. Details regarding future dates, programming, and exhibitor opportunities for the upcoming JA New York shows will be announced soon.