Michel Loris-Melikoff, show director of Baselworld, which 10 years ago, with more than 2,000 exhibitors, was a cash cow for event organiser MCH Group – but now is a cash killer. Photo: Hodinkee
march 2019 saw a 20 % decline in exhibitors and a 22 % decline in visitor numbers , with one US brand manager reportedly describing the event as “ Baselworld Lite ” . The management team made changes this year in a bid to secure the event 's future , with further changes scheduled for 2020 . The event 's management is implementing its " Vision 2020 + " strategy , which includes a digital platform visitors can access throughout the year . The success of next year 's event is likely to be dependent on whether Swiss watch brands decide to participate . Rolex and Patek Philippe have expressed their ongoing support for the event .