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The mark of industry inspiration & information December 2019 £7.50 Are you being served? Retail Services to consider Attention seeking How NAJ members do visual merchandising NAJ Awards Revealed, the 11 worthy winners The National Association of Jewellers
THE TH MARCH CLUB Be Security Wise WITH TH MARCH & THE NAJ Helping to protect you, your business and your employees An important TH March and NAJ initiative aiming to raise awareness, increase knowledge and improve security throughout the UK Jewellery trade. Contact TH March or the NAJ to find out more! www.thmarch.co.uk/NAJ www.naj.co.uk/securitywise
December 2019 Opinion 3 from The Editor highlight some inspiring retail stories, with tips and trend directions from experts in the field. Underscoring the importance of presenting the best face to the world, the NAJ Awards 2019 include Physical Shop Front of the Year – one of three new award categories. Check out all the Award shortlists on page 20. A fabulous store, with beautiful stock and amazing, NAJ JET-trained, staff is the key to success. The missing piece in this jeweller’s jigsaw is ‘retail services’. If you’re not offering IRV valuations, relevant insurance, repairs, watch straps and, maybe, ear-piercing, you are certainly missing a trick or three. Check out page 57 for a round-up of the added extras that will bring new customers through the door… and have them coming back. Elsewhere in this issue we offer you even more in the way of information and guidance, from the impact of Brexit on hallmarking (page 15), diamond pipeline protection (page 62) and Sustainable H ello, my name is Belinda and I have a teeny, tiny, Development Goals (page 34) to the benefits of NAJ membership, hardly-anything-really confession to make… I’m a Education news and events for your 2020 calendar. Our member trend concocter. Essentially, if I want a look, a style, a profile on page 60 throws the spotlight on fine gemstone jewellery movement, a thing… to be, I’m not above embroidering brand Ntinga and we introduce you to a new member – The Hallmark the facts a tad, talking it up if you like. I’m owning up now because Jewellery Group (page 49). in this issue I’ve been able to indulge in this personal whim and with something approaching a clear conscience. I have always loved All that and a feature on the latest, greatest jewellery trend – tiaras! brooches, and hoped to see more of them more often in collections. Nah, just joking… I know when to stop pushing my luck. That one (and And now – ta da! – they’re finding favour big-time. Whoops, there I I do actually love a sparkly, wear-anytime headpiece) can be saved go again, but turn to page 26 to see my tempting pick of the latest for another day. Meanwhile, here’s wishing you a joyous and fruitful beautiful bunch. Let’s make this happen folks! festive season and a promising New Year. The power of positive thinking is certainly working its magic in the world of visual merchandising. When the going gets tough, the tough open a new store, extend or refurbish an existing one and generally up their game to give the competition a run for its money. As you might imagine, these days it’s as much about delivering great customer experiences as creating beautiful spaces. On page 40 we Belinda Morris, Editor pg 26 pg 40 pg 57 “Brooches demonstrate wearability and are not “Experience… really matters to customers. With so “Jewellers up and down the country are helping specifically for the more mature lady… they are much choice in the retail market, vying for their to make multiples like Timpson very successful actually very diverse accessories” attention is a full time strategic job for retailers” indeed…”
Bransom Inside Stars this Issue December 2019 November and December 2018 Bransom Award winners NEWS PROFILE 08 NAJ News 49 New Member Profile Created in the UK, Brexit and Benevolent Society Meet The Hallmark Jewellers Group updates 50 Hill & Hill Jewellers 11 NAJ News Altrincham’s exciting new jewellery store Introducing the Education Steering Group 60 Fine Gemstone Jewellery 12 NAJ News We learn more about highflier Ntinga 2020 Events Calendar 66 The Last Word… 14 Industry News … goes to Scott Walter The latest CIBJO Reports 53 Industry News New… IJL venue, DPA CEO, Tivon website TRENDS 26 PINterest Brooches back? They were never out of style! 40 Visual Merchandising How to stand out from the crowd – the new rules 54 What’s New… … in Watches EVENTS & SHOWS 60 20 NAJ Awards pg The winners revealed 37 Conference 2019 Report (part 2) from the IRV’s must-attend weekend
NAJ News 5 The National Association of Jewellers 54 The National Association of Jewellers 10 Vyse Street pg Birmingham B18 6LT 0121 237 1110 www.naj.co.uk Editor: Belinda Morris editor@naj.co.uk BUSINESS ADVICE Advertising sales: 15 Hallmarking garry.lane@naj.co.uk Post-Brexit guidance on hallmarking 07741 554 011 17 Education Designed & produced by: Introducing new courses Senior Internet www.senior.co.uk 18 Financial Planning 0115 838 9555 Cash flow is king, advises TH March 22 Member Benefits Printed by: HPA Print Ltd The perks of belonging, plus notes on compliance www.hpaprint.co.uk 07525 011 589 32 JET Business Network The importance of Business Strategy Contributory writers: 34 Sustainable Development Goals Raji Ashwin, David Brough, Simon Forrester, Hannah How to contribute to this global agenda McWhirter, Chris Oliver, Nysa Pradham, Lavinia Pryce 35 Gold Market Report Front Cover Image: Gold Bank London 57 Retail Services www.gold-bank.co.uk The little extras that create a great business +44 (0) 203 500 1111 sales@gold-bank.co.uk 62 Diamond Pipeline Integrity For further information please refer to Page 19 Ensure your products are what you say they are The NAJ is responsible for producing The Jeweller and although every effort is made to ensure that the information supplied is accurate, the NAJ does not accept liability, loss, damage or claim whatsoever that may result from opinions expressed by contributors. Information and ideas are for guidance only and members should always consult their own professional advisors. The NAJ accepts no responsibility OPINION for the content of any advertiser, advertisement or insert in The Jeweller. Anyone having dealings with any advertiser must rely on their own enquiries. The magazine is printed using vegetable based inks on FSC certified paper produced from sustainable sources 03 From the Editor 07 The CEO’S Foreword 65 Education The latest Clarity & Success stars
jeje TrTr lelrer ww usus y yr r elel tete etet d d aiai lele l sl s adad y y erer stsete inin mms s Pursuit Pursuit innovation innovation takes takes the the stress stress – – and and the the guesswork guesswork – – out out of of Christmas Christmas sales sales “Our “Our users users –– and and Innovation has been a mainstay of Pursuit’s growth for over two Innovation has been a mainstay of Pursuit’s growth for over two decades. It has been driven by listening – and responding – to the there there have have been been over over decades. It has been driven by listening – and responding – to the needs of our customers. So – we’d like to express our thanks to all the needs of our customers. So – we’d like to express our thanks to all the 300 300 more more this this year year – – jewellery businesses that have been the source of our success. Inspired jewellery businesses that have been the source of our success. Inspired by their needs, during 2020 Pursuit will be revealing even more new, will see even more will see even more by their needs, during 2020 Pursuit will be revealing even more new, exciting and ground-breaking innovations, each designed to help innovations innovations in in 2020” 2020” exciting and ground-breaking innovations, each designed to help enhance the special magic that the jewellery trade is all about. enhance the special magic that the jewellery trade is all about. Talk to Pursuit – and see how our success could contribute to your Talk to Pursuit – and see how our success could contribute to your success in 2020. success in 2020. See See what what you’re you’re missing. missing. Arrange Arrange a a demonstration. demonstration. Call Call Pursuit Pursuit now now + + 44 44 (0) (0) 1603 1603 263800 263800 Follow us Follow us @PursuitSoftware @PursuitSoftware @PursuitSoftware @PursuitSoftware integrated shop and online sales and stock performance monitoring integrated shop and online sales and stock performance monitoring www.pursuit.co.uk www.pursuit.co.uk
December 2019 Opinion 7 CEO’s foreword Speaking of research, it was both sobering and refreshing (a great combination in the run-up to Christmas) to read the British Hallmarking Council’s work on the amount of fake and unmarked ‘gold’ jewellery for sale to UK consumers. In a previous life I was involved in developing a relationship with some of the online marketplaces to stop the sale of unlicensed and dangerous chemicals to untrained end users. This is an area where associations shine – protecting the public. Our message is that for peace of mind, every purchase – whether online or in person – should be from an NAJ member. On the topic of representing the public, we’ve recently talked to a credit card company about a Section 75 claim for a poorly-labelled HPHT diamond – is the average consumer really going to know what ‘HPHT’ means? Happily the card company paid out, but it highlighted our ongoing concerns about misleading descriptors for Bring in jewellery products. I was so moved that I got in front of a camera to ‘star’ (ahem) in a video on diamond terminology to accompany our forthcoming Trading Standards Assured Advice. While the wording will change for different products, the sentiment remains the same; Your Bling always ensure you are selling to an informed consumer to protect them… and you. Trust is hard to come by, and every bad actor (no, not my starring role in this case) in our sector drives another consumer to book holidays or buy tech rather than jewellery. Y To understand our consumers a little better, the NAJ has teamed ou’d expect the National Association of Jewellers to have up with the CMJ and the Goldsmiths’ Company to carry out the some very nice chains of office for our president and chair, largest ever UK survey of consumers’ views on jewellery to develop alongside other items created or donated over the years; some high-profile media-friendly messaging in the run-up to and you’d be spot on (see past issues of The Jeweller for Christmas. This will be hitting editors’ desks soon, and we’ve also details). So it struck me that we aren’t unique. Every trade body or worked on a suite of press releases allowing NAJ members to get professional institute I’ve previously worked for has some ‘bling’ – as some local press – we’ll be in touch on that topic to support your my president at a former job called it – locked in a safe or tucked push for more jewellery sales. away in a sock drawer (genuine example – sorry, TH March!). Most won’t have had it valued in a long while, if at all; it’s not in the Right, off to do my bit for the judging in the NAJ Awards – there’s forefront of an association CEO’s mind. a mountain of entries for several of the categories; it’s great to see the passion and innovation in our industry highlighted. I’m Many items will require repair or enamelling/engraving to keep looking forward to seeing you on 5th December where the double them up to date as part of the AGM process, perhaps to list past and act of Kelsall and Forrester (the Sam Fox and Mick Fleetwood of current post-holders, or to mend that dent when the chairman fell the jewellery sector awards circuit – ask your dad) will be wowing over at the Christmas party. Few however will have actually done this the audience with a carefully choreographed presentation to the repair/refurb work. Enter stage left, your friendly neighbourhood worthy winners. jeweller. A very prosperous Christmas and a happy and healthy 2020 to you all. Why not contact an association local to you, inviting them to ‘bring in their bling’ for a clean, maybe even have it valued by your in-house IRV? It could make a great story for the local media and the relevant trade press for that sector. You’d also be reaching every member of that trade body, many of whom will have jewellery of their own to value or repair (see page 57 about added value repair and valuation services). I’m currently writing an article for association CEOs on the ‘bling’ topic, to urge them to get theirs MOT’d by a local NAJ member. Please let me know if you get a call, I’d be very interested to Simon Forrester CEO see how many we get and the long-term results. National Association of Jewellers
8 NAJ News The Jeweller Kerry Gregory keeps you Who you gonna call – at the NAJ to get stuff done? in the loupe about the • Want to make the most out of your member benefits? Scott Williams, head of PTSI Steering Group membership can ensure you’re getting the most out of the NAJ • Got a great idea for content for web or social media? Ben Massey, director of marketing and communications has been transforming digital for the NAJ In October, the PTSI Steering Group met Do you know what the NAJ to catch up on developments since the last • Have expertise you want to share in The meeting and to look at what we need to has been doing for you? Jeweller magazine? Belinda Morris, editor, focus our efforts on going into peak season can help you get published and 2020. To me it felt like there were two Over the last few months the NAJ has been: • Need a rogue trader investigated for bad themes running through the day – what has in the press correcting misinformation practices? Katie Gillespie, compliance the NAJ been doing for me and who you about synthetic diamonds; launching manager works harder than Matt Allbright gonna call? online affordable modular courses with to weed them out the information you need to grow your • Want a course developed? Marie Garnett, But both themes centre on one thing: business; visible and available at trade head of education creates relevant and communication. events for members to discuss their benefits effective education that will enthuse your and needs; constantly updating content staff One of the most challenging aspects of and function on the website; dealing with running any business, including a trade complaints against traders who do not Whatever you want or need, call, email, association, is communication. What is uphold the same standards that we do and contact us via the website, or send a carrier too much? Too little? What do you need to forging powerful links and alliances with pigeon! The NAJ is your association, working know? Want to know? When? And how? other organisations. for you, if you don’t tell us, we don’t know. New Year insight Benevolent Society for NAJ Members Actions Further Funding The NAJ’s Consumer Focus steering group has delivered In a move to further support people from the industry a syndicated questionnaire, jointly funded by the NAJ, who have fallen on hard times, the Benevolent Society has Goldsmiths’ Company and the CMJ, to understand why increased its regular donation to beneficiaries from £190 people buy and don’t buy jewellery. to £300 per quarter. This money makes a real difference to those who are often suffering terrible financial hardship. It The research, which provided 2,000+ responses, is one of is their ray of sunshine in what otherwise could be a dismal the largest research activities to take place for the jewellery existence. community and strongly supports the steering group’s mission to stimulate demand for the industry. David Doyle, treasurer of the Benevolent Society and NAJ president said: “We’re extremely thankful to the people Adam Jacobs, of Jacobs the Jewellers in Reading who chairs and companies that support the Benevolent Society. Only the group said: “We’re extremely thankful to the CMJ and through their support are we able to better assist the working the Goldsmiths’ Company for supporting this important people of our past, that have made our Industries what they research activity for the good of the industry. Within the are today." group we’re calling the project ‘the jewellery census’, due to its significance. This move follows the news earlier in the year that the “In the new year members will be able to log in to the insight Benevolent Society, the charitable arm of the British Allied pages of the NAJ website members area and understand Trades Federation, launched the Fuller Foundation. This exactly why people do and do not buy jewellery in their Foundation provides funding for professionals wishing to region, divisible by key demographics. The research is move from a middle to senior management role and will part one of our two-part plan. We will now drive two key support activities such as an MBA. Potential applicants can campaigns; for those who buy jewellery to buy more, and request an application form from the Benevolent Society those who don’t currently buy jewellery to start to do so.” secretary. Part of the process is to evidence a strong business case encompassing a strategic development plan, which To visit the NAJ’s insight pages (members only), visit delivers both commercial and non-commercial impact for naj.co.uk/insight their business.
December 2019 NAJ News 9 Derbyshire-based label and ticket manufacturer, Magpie Europe, last month published its strong finish for 2019 and is now Magpie Europe enters looking to make further progress in 2020. Magpie, which offers all NAJ members 15 2020 in strong position with per cent off labels and 10% off printers, has recently taken on a new apprentice, passed its ISO 9001 certification, and exceeded its new contract, apprentice waste target for the year. The target, which stood at 2 per cent, was broken with final results of 1.3 per cent, meaning a reduced and certification cost for manufacturing products can be passed on to Magpie’s clients. both for our commercial benefit, and that of fulfil ongoing business as well as the new Caren Colabella, director of Magpie Europe the customers. Some clients are reporting contract. For 2020, we’d like to make further said: “Late last year we a difficult time out there, so we felt it strives forward and we’ve got our eyes keenly took the company decision to put all of our necessary to make the changes in order on NAJ’s Created in the UK, getting out of employees through the NVQ level three in remain a key part of the retail jeweller’s the office to see new and existing customers Business Improvement Techniques in order business.” to deliver impact into the Magpie business and that all-important waste figure, which will be a tough objective to beat, I’m sure.” The company, which was shortlisted for the NAJ Service Provider of the Year Magpie has also recently redesigned its Award, has also recently won a significant contract within an associated trade to website, gemtags.co.uk, featuring a bold new the jewellery industry, which remains look, which will certainly help the business core to its long-term plan. trailblaze its way into 2020. Sharing its objectives for 2020, To claim your Magpie Europe Caren said: “We had to bring discount, call 0121 237 1110 in a new apprentice to help or email membership@naj.co.uk A big welcome to… Created in the UK The membership team would like to Since its launch at IJL in September, the NAJ has experienced more than 100 welcome all of our latest new NAJ members registers of interest. below – we wish them all a long and prosperous future with the Association! The scheme is available for manufacturers, designers and retailers to bolt on to their annual subscription. As part of the additional subscription, items Ballantyne Diamonds – Retailer can be marked ‘Created in the Code by Edge – Supplier UK’ and the logo can be used Eternally Elusive – Retailer in point of sale and marketing materials. ‘Created in the UK’ can Guardian Brands – Supplier also feature as an advanced filter Bello Creations – Designer in the new Find a Jeweller tool online. Likewise, retailers can use Elliot Brown Watches – Supplier the Created in the UK brand in PK Jewels UK Ltd – Supplier their marketing materials and add Philip Lloyd Jewellers – Retailer the filter to their NAJ profile tool. William and Julia Shaw Jewellers – Retailer Members can join the Created Dira London – Retailer in the UK scheme as part of membership renewals, and Want more from your membership? Visit also join directly. For more naj.co.uk/benefits to find out more about information visit the great benefits you’re entitled to. naj.co.uk/created
Exclusive Offer to NAJ Members GE330 Use the GE330 to print your own jewellery pricing labels • Package includes: • Free label design software - Jewellers Edition • 1,000 Jewellery labels • Ink ribbon £325.00 Price excludes carriage + VAT Offer ends 31st December 2019 GemTAGS c/o Magpie Europe Ltd Unit E, Heage Road Industrial Estate, Heage Road, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3GH Tel: 01773 749237 Email: info@magpie-europe.com
December 2019 Business Advice 11 The Education Steering Group In the third in our series introducing the Association’s Steering Groups, member Nysa Pradham and vice-chair Chris Oliver explain their aspirations for education in our industry. Nysa Pradham, head of Education, Gem-A “There have been many developments in the gems and jewellery trade and this trend continues at a fast pace. The whole industry is increasingly aware of the need for education to extend right along the trade pipeline. The consumer is becoming more aware as we live in the age of technology and information explosion. Therefore, there is a serious need for education and retailers are acutely conscious of Chris Oliver, head of Professional Training, this need. Goldsmiths’ Centre Education is and always has been my passion and I feel that in any "The decision to join the NAJ’s Education Steering Group was a industry it is quintessential for an individual’s professional and relatively straightforward one. On both a personal and professional personal growth, to enable them to develop the competencies and level, it is flattering to be approached by an organisation such as expertise needed to grow and professionalise the trade. At Gem-A the NAJ to assist with the Education Steering Group and I hope the our efforts and vision has been to continually develop our education approach is a reflection on the work that the Goldsmiths’ Centre has offering to cater to the needs of the trade and to support the undertaken around education and training since its opening. development and growth of the global industry through education and research. My passion for this industry stems from the individuals that aspire to and currently work within it. The level of dedication and enthusiasm In that I am excited to be part of the NAJ Education Steering which is in evidence across the many different facets of the sector Group as it provides a platform for us to exchange ideas, discuss inspires us to keep pursuing the most innovative and meaningful opportunities and challenges and brainstorm solutions for education forms of education and training, which can enable an individual to within the trade and support each other in our endeavour for achieve their potential. No one business or individual is the same excellence in education. Through this Group, I am hoping I will and it is this uniqueness which makes us want to drive change. be able to contribute my ideas and aspirations for gemmology education, but at the same time learn and develop the network that I hope that by joining the NAJ Education Steering Group both can help us achieve our collective ambitions for the trade.” myself and colleagues on it can provide opportunities for NAJ members and the wider industry which are both relevant and of high quality. In working for the Goldsmiths’ Centre, we have always seen significant value in collaboration, and I see this in exactly the same way for this Steering Group; education and training is not unique to any one organisation, and is a cornerstone of this industry’s growth potential. Our aim should be to work with and alongside For more information on the NAJ’s Steering other organisations to innovate rather than duplicate and equip Groups or how to get involved visit: naj.co.uk/ those passionate about our industry with the type of training that empowers them to start or continue a career." about or email: membership@naj.co.uk
12 NAJ News The Jeweller What’s on Our events calendar is filling up fast, with the NAJ team hosting more ‘NAJ Live’ networking events around the country. in 2020 We are going to get out and meet more of you face-to-face, with the sole aim of ensuring members are getting the most out of their benefits. January March June 12th – 15th: Giving and Living - Exeter 4th – 8th: Hong Kong International Jewellery Show* 2nd – 5th: The JCK Show - Las Vegas, USA - Hong Kong 14th: NAJ and London Assay Office Hallmarking 11th: NAJ AGM - Tower of London Talk - Goldsmiths’ Hall, London 11th: CMJ Networking day + NAJ Live - Sheffield 11th: NAJ Live - London 17th – 20th: Bijorhca, Paris - France 17th: NAJ Education Awards - Goldsmiths’ Hall, 20th – 22nd: NAJ Summit - East Midlands London 17th – 22nd: Vicenzaoro - Vicenza 19th – 21st: Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring - Glasgow 18th: JET Practical Training Day - London Assay Office July 23rd: JET Practical Training Day - Sheffield Assay TBC: NAJ Peru Trip - Peru Office 2nd: UK Jewellery Awards - Tower of London 8th: CMJ Networking Event + NAJ Live - Belfast April February 19th – 22nd: Home and Gift - Yorkshire Events Centre, Harrogate 9th: NAJ and Retail Jeweller Golf day + NAJ Live - 2nd–6th: Jewellery and Watch - NEC, Birmingham 20th: NAJ Live - Harrogate Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel & Country Club, West 3rd: NAJ Live - Resorts World, Birmingham Midlands 25th–28th: Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair - 2nd – 5th: NY NOW - New York, USA 22nd: CMJ Networking Day + NAJ Live - Edinburgh Hong Kong 12th – 18th: NAJ India Trip - Asia 30th – 5th May: Baselworld* - Basel, Switzerland 13th - 16th: IIJS Signature Show - Mumbai India August 14th – 17th: Inhorgenta*- Munich, Germany May 16th – 17th: Jewellery Cut Live - London 2nd – 3rd: CMJ Autumn Trade Event - Birmingham 16th – 17th: CMJ Spring Trade Event - Birmingham TBC: NAJ Live (at the Horses) - Chepstow TBC: NAJ Live - Southampton TBC: Family Fun Day - Midlands September Event Key 13th – 15th: IJL - Alexandra Palace, London NAJ event or collaboration 14th: NAJ Live - London NAJ LIVE Event the NAJ is exhibiting/ EVENTS hosting at 2020 October other events with the NAJ in attendance TBC: NAJ Live - Manchester 5th – 19th: NAJ Sri Lanka Trip - Sri Lanka To see more information November on the listed events, and view the NAJ’s new TBC: NAJ Live - Cambridge digital event calendar visit naj.co.uk/whats-on December *BATF pavilion space available 3rd: Benevolent Society Ball - Solihull
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14 Industry News The Jeweller CIBJO Reports Ahead of its 2019 Congress in Bahrain last month, The World internationally, and with frameworks that govern other industries around the globe. It is Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) has released a number of important that jewellery industry companies fully understand their responsibilities under reports on key industry issues. We outline four here: these complex sets of expectations, and they communicate them effectively and directly with their supply-chain partners and ultimately the consumer,” author Tiffany Diamond Commission – Special Report Coloured Stone Special Report Stevens writes. This report focuses predominantly on Gemstone variety names are being used Noting that it is the consumers’ right to what it refers to as the ‘faultline’ between for marketing purposes, with few if any know how the how their jewellery and its diamonds mined in nature and man-made agreed-to gemmological standards. components affect the environment and the diamonds. “Because laboratory-grown Unsubstantiated coloured gemstone variety lives of people as it journeys along the supply diamonds prices were deliberately names are the “biggest challenge our chain, she states that being forthright, fully benchmarked against the price of natural trade is facing right now,” with “numerous descriptive and making all disclosures clear diamonds at the outset, the risk exists that instances of the same descriptive names and easy to understand is imperative. the consuming public will continue to being assigned according to different associate the one with the other, even after standards, each time in accordance with the economics have changed,” it states. “The the individual guidelines of various Pearl Special Report price war in the laboratory-grown diamond gemmological laboratories. sector could have the effect of depressing Prepared by the CIBJO Pearl Commission, the value of goods in the natural diamond “Starting with more classical descriptive this looks at the growing impact of sector. terms, like ‘pigeon blood’ and ‘royal blue,’ environmental and conservationist factors some laboratories began developing their on the pearl sector, noting that these pose “This makes the task of disconnecting the own nomenclature, creating new descriptive challenges, but also provide opportunities for natural diamond and the laboratory-grown names for a wide range of colours. the industry. Apparently, this is a mutually beneficial diamond sectors even more important… business strategy for both the laboratories In the Philippines, for instance, climate from our professional perspective, and and the dealers. and environmental changes have had a from the perspective of the consumer. The appeal of both products is different, and so significant effect on pearl production. “It is imperative that the industry act These changes present both challenges clearly are the economics. They both should quickly before consumer confidence is and opportunities – the main challenge is be provided the opportunity to thrive, in compromised. CIBJO’s Coloured Stone the lower volume of production that will be harmony alongside each other.” Commission will work in close collaboration available for distribution to the global market. with the organisation’s Gemmological On the other hand, this also serves as an The report calls for the creation of agreed- Commission to establish standards and opportunity because, with lower biomass to rules of engagement between the parameters for variety names,” the report density, comes the potential to achieve a two diamond sectors in marketing their states. higher quality output. products, and warns about pitching one as being more ethical or environmentally The report also looks at natural pearls. While acceptable than the other. “This is not only Ethics Special Report rare, nowadays they most commonly are a a self-destructive marketing strategy, but it by-product of the seafood industry, and as is also questionable in terms of the claims “Responsible business standards being such could be subject to restrictions imposed being made and the data upon which they applied in the jewellery industry are by the Convention on International Trade in are based. meshing further and further with those used Endangered Species of Wild Fauna (CITES). “Proper rules of engagement need to be created,” the report continues, suggesting that one would be for all sides to agree that any stone is neither ethical nor environmentally friendly. “These qualities refer to the way in which they are mined or manufactured. The onus of responsible behaviour always falls upon the individuals and companies mining or synthesising, processing and marketing these products.” To see the full reports visit www.cibjo.org/congress2019/special-reports/
December 2019 Business Advice 15 The British Hallmarking Council sets out best practice for The CCM mark can be applied to new articles along with UK Assay Office marks UK jewellery importers and exporters, around possible or as an addition to articles already bearing UK hallmarks. scenarios post-Brexit. If you are importing from any of the above countries, we recommend that post-Brexit Hallmarking you request a convention mark on your goods, or you submit them to a UK Assay Office for hallmarking before placing them on the market. Requirements Those exporting to any of the above countries, we recommend that you apply a convention mark to your goods, post-Brexit. Post-Brexit The UK exemption weights of 7.78gm for silver, 1gm for gold/palladium and 0.5gm for platinum, may not apply in other countries. For example, in the Republic of Ireland there are no exemption weights. This means that any stock destined for southern The current situation in countries who are members of the Ireland must bear a CCM. Convention. There are currently two separate ways in What about EU countries that are not which hallmarks applied in one country Managed Deal Exit members of the Convention? can be recognised as being equivalent in another country: If the UK negotiates a managed exit from Luxemburg and Germany do not require the EU with an EU customs union, that any hallmark as a pre-market authorisation. European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling relationship may continue to be subject to the ECJ ruling which currently provides In France a hallmark is a legal requirement. The ECJ has ruled that EU member the basis for recognition of domestic marks. Importers must register with the Bureau states must recognise each other’s marks There are also likely to be cut-offs agreed de Garantie. In Spain a hallmark is a legal subject to providing an equivalent level over a set period, if there are going to be requirement. Importers must register with of protection and being intelligible to changes to the current situation. Until the an assay office in Spain. There are legal consumers. Most EU countries, with a exact nature of any future deal is known the requirements regarding hallmarking in requirement for compulsory hallmarking, exact effect cannot be determined. Belgium. Details can be found via the will accept UK hallmarks as equivalent to Federal Ministry of Finance. their own. The UK also accepts many EU Delayed Exit member state hallmarks. Note: At time of going to press, the final UK- In the case of a delayed exit, the current EU relationship is unknown. Therefore, the The Common Control Mark (CCM) recognition to UK marks by our EU above sets out best practice around possible scenarios that may or may not transpire. neighbours and vice versa would continue. The Convention mark (CCM) can only be This information relates to hallmarks applied by a signatory country within its only. Separate advice should be sought on national boundary – the Convention is an customs arrangements. agreement between Governments who What action can importers and have ratified the terms of the treaty and has exporters consider taking now? www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ technical rules on testing and marking. A british-hallmarking-council signatory country applying the CCM has The CCM mark applied by a UK Assay followed these common technical rules – all Office is currently accepted in all EU other signatory countries will accept the member states because it is a UK hallmark. articles directly onto their market. You can start applying a CCM mark to your goods now with no impact on your current New Era for Hallmarking import or export requirements. Post-Brexit, it will continue to be accepted In a joint initiative, the NAJ, the What might change post-Brexit? by those EU member States who are also IRV and the London Assay Office signatories to the Convention. will come together on 14th January, No Deal Exit 2020 at Goldsmiths' Hall, London, If the UK leaves the EU without any deal, Which countries are covered by the to discuss the very many facets of all the UK’s obligations to recognise EU CCM? hallmarking. London Assay Master, marks would cease and vice versa. In this Robert Organ, will talk about the past, case we anticipate that any product already Current member states of the Convention present and future of hallmarking; on the market pre-Brexit would be legal and are: Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech NAJ CEO Simon Forrester will already be in free circulation. Republic, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, outline new developments and Kerry Ireland, Israel, Latvia, Lithuania, Gregory of Gemmology Rocks will New stock entering the UK market would Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, clarify the realities and logistics require a UK-hallmark and in the case of Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Sweden, of hallmarking within a jewellery stock exported to other EU countries, it Switzerland, and the UK. business. To attend this free event, would require a mark recognised by those Serbia and Italy have undergone visit: naj.co.uk/whats-on countries. The CCM will continue to be assessment, and been invited to join but are recognised in the UK and to be recognised in the process of ratifying the treaty.
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December 2019 Education 17 Creating Practical Skills The updated programme will enable the trainee valuer to study the theory of jewellery valuation and appraisal using attractive and detailed learning materials, and Proficiency in the before spending time with an experienced and dedicated valuer to start putting their newly acquired learning into practice… and Jewellery Industry building confidence in the process. A key benefit of this practical learning, in the small-group workshop, will be to allow the trainee to discuss and process new information with like-minded colleagues. They can support, and be supported, by each other and perhaps form peer networks Jewellery industry professionals are Which is why the NAJ is launching a new that they can draw on throughout their innately creative people, inspired by qualification – Foundations of Appraisal professional lives as valuers. handling precious metals, gemstones and Practice (Jewellery, Silverware and diamonds; understanding their properties, Watches) – in January 2020. This revitalised The Foundations of Appraisal Practice their value and how they can be worked qualification will incorporate learning from (Jewellery, Silverware and Watches) is a into beautiful pieces. Studying alone can’t the existing Certificate of Appraisal Theory pre-requisite for membership of the Institute develop this awareness and learning – with (CAT), which it will supercede, as well as a of Registered Valuers. However, CAT will touching, feeling and interacting with three-day interactive `practical valuation continue to be accepted for membership of jewellery comes appreciation. techniques’ workshop. the IRV. We are sure that this new qualification will help trainees be better prepared for the submission of their sample valuations, which also continue to be a pre-requisite for membership. To find out more about this new qualification, as well as the invaluable JET Practical Training days for all new and existing JET students, visit naj. co.uk/qualifications. Remember, funding for courses may be available through the Benevolent Society and the NAJ’s Educational Trust. Visit www.naj.co.uk/ charities for details. can benefit hugely from mentoring and the sharing of experience. Business Course for These might be craft graduates, new starters with skills but little business experience, small businesses with big ideas, hobbyists Creative Entrepreneurs turning professional, those starting second careers and new businesses that need help in growing to the next stage. The pilot programme for the 12-week course will run in early 2020 at a special The Birmingham Assay Office is supporting have talent and creative skills and need introductory price of £1,200 per person. and facilitating a new course aimed at some hands-on direction to establish their Applications for the course (with CV artisans from all sectors, which has been put business or grow it to the next level.” including qualifications and career together by jewellery industry figure and history) must be received no later serial entrepreneur Dr Gordon Hamme. The concept of the course follows the than 18th December 2019. Visit www. principles of the successful Finnish course, anchorcertacademy.net for applications/info “We are really excited about this which Hamme studied. It is designed to programme, which we believe will fill a be more fluid, flexible and applied than a The NAJ Educational Trust and the large gap in the jewellery and other craft standard business course and therefore Benevolent Society trustees welcome industries,” says Marion Wilson, director of more suited to the creative mind. It is ideal individual applications to part fund the AnchorCert Academy at Birmingham Assay for self-motivated, dynamic individuals pilot course. Visit: https://www.naj.co.uk/ Office. “It is designed to support those who who need some business direction and who financial-support for more information.
18 Financial Planning The Jeweller Cash Flow is King… … and it’s an important factor in the financial security of your business, says Steven Clemence FPFS of jewellery insurance specialist TH March. Y ou have got all your security sorted out and you have insured your stock and your premises, making sure there are no hidden surprises waiting just around the corner to trip you up. Now may be the time shareholder agreement. You might have to look at your partnership agreement or your memorandum and articles and be prepared to update them, just as you would update your own will if circumstances have changed or what you read isn’t what you expect to to concentrate on growing your business or happen. Taking out Key Person Cover and adding further protection for what you have Business Loan Protection shouldn’t just be already built up. It’s easier said than done left to when your investors require it; you to run and build a business, but it is also all should require it to protect your business too easy to run into trouble, especially if, for and your family. If you are growing your whatever reason, the cash flow dries up at a business it will be down to your hard work crucial time. and determination to succeed that will make it happen. In the short term it will be A crisis in your business can often be a sacrifice in time to your loved ones, so averted if you have insured the most why not protect their future and the value of important assets – not your stock and what you are building up – ‘the family silver’ premises, but you and your key people, – while you are still getting there. Steve’s career as a financial against death, critical illness or long-term adviser stretches back to 1987 illness. Make sure, through insurance, that Having a Financial Planner on board to and he has been with TH March there is money available when it is needed sort out your Business Protection needs for 10 years. A chartered financial most to get your business through the cash will help you put the right plans in place. If planner, Steve is also a Fellow of crunch caused by a crisis. they go to the whole of the market they can the Personal Finance Society, (the select the best cover and provider for your FPFS after his name). The award Just as an individual should have a will, needs. You’ll probably want someone with of a Fellowship reflects the level you need to think about what would experience in this area and you will also of advanced study undertaken by be happening in the business today if want to run any recommendation by your Steve together with his academic accountant, but the right advice will allow achievement, knowledge, ethics something had happened to you or your and experience. business’ partners/fellow directors/key you to make sure the right cover is paid to people/shareholders yesterday. It should the right people (or your company) at the be written down in a partnership or right time. For information sheets on Key Person, Shareholder Protection, Long Term Income Protection, Business Loan Protection and Relevant Life Cover please contact Steve on 01822 855555 or at steven.clemence@thmarch.co.uk
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20 NAJ Awards 2019 The Jeweller Victorious! The waiting is over… we can now reveal the 11 worthy winners in this year’s NAJ Awards, headline sponsored by Nivoda. Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative MyriamSOS, Aqua Wave ring of the Year – Monica Vinader For delivering an activity that has contributed to wider society, a specific community or a cause through raising awareness, making a contribution of time or Held during the festive, fun-filled, fund- Physical Shop Front of the Year – Drakes raising Benevolent Ball, the glittering funds, or other associated initiatives. ceremony saw three new categories join For being able to enhance or maintain an the 2019 Awards: Innovation of the Year, “Monica Vinader not only champions excellent physical presence which clearly Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative of charitable causes by collaborating communicates its brand proposition to the Year and Physical Shop Front of the Year commercially with charities, ie Women for the intended target audience in a physical – all in the ‘Organisation’ section. Women International, it is dedicated to setting. maximising its social impact within the And here are all the NAJ Award winners: supply chain network.” “A strong, powerful frontage from this family-run independent, is beautifully complemented by seasonal graphics to really Shortlist: Anchor & Crew, Lebrusan Studio, capture the attention of passers-by.” Nova Silver and Pugata Jewellery Sponsored by: Pursuit Shortlist: Hill & Hill, Drakes, Lister Horsfall, Maunder Watch Company, Time & Motion Jewellers Sponsored by: VM and Events Website of the Year – Bond Jewellery & Diamonds For significantly enhancing or maintaining Innovation of the Year – MyriamSOS an excellent web presence which clearly communicates the company’s For a company that has made a significant brand proposition to the intended target addition or change to their business that has audience across multiple devices. delivered a positive impact. “An expertly designed and built website “The Aqua Wave ring designed MyriamSOS, which is very engaging for the user. The use in collaboration with the Osmium Institute, of video clips provides great visuals and is one of very few jewellery pieces globally interactivity. High-quality images and deep containing osmium.” levels of information.” Shortlist: Akansha Sethi and De Beers Shortlist: Lebrusan Studio, Anchor & Crew, Group Industry Services Ruffs and Purely Diamonds Awards Trophy Sponsored by: Clarity and Success Sponsored by: IJL
December 2019 NAJ Awards 2019 21 Company Awards Individual Awards Workshop Professional of the Year – Alexander Wood, apprentice to Nathanial Groves These awards are given to the most These awards are given to a jewellery “Alexander is an exemplary apprentice outstanding companies in the UK and professional and/or team that consistently mounter, demonstrating ingenuity and are split into these different categories to demonstrate a high level of professionalism, exquisite craftsmanship while working on recognise companies that feature throughout integrity and honesty as part of the UK 25 pieces during the year, winning GC&DC the jewellery and watch value chain. jewellery community. Individual awards are awards and completing his masterpiece to split into different categories to recognise present to the Goldsmiths’ Company.” individuals that feature throughout the Jewellery and/or Watch Supplier of the jewellery value chain. Shortlist: Anthony Dellow, Richard Soden Year – Hockley Mint and Peter Byrne Sponsored by: Presman Mastermelt “Firmly positioned as a home-grown, British Sales Person of the Year – Tracey Jones manufacturer, it consistently delivers (Purely Diamonds) customer centric jewellery solutions, running rings around the competition.” “A career investment clearly demonstrated The shortlists, selected by the NAJ editorial through the satisfaction her customers team, didn’t disappoint. Simon Forrester, NAJ Shortlist: Anchor & Crew, Ntinga, Unique enjoy. Seen as ‘invaluable’ to the team, her CEO, described the entries as ‘competitive’ & Co and Clogau Gold knowledge and emotional intelligence is a across the board, and showing ‘true business Sponsored by: Inhorgenta sure-fire winner.” impacts. “These were great submissions and all with their own unique strengths and Shortlist: Craig Cohen (Ntinga), Emma creativity. What a showcase of innovation!” Service Provider of the Year – Williamson (Lucy Quartermaine) he says. Gemmology Rocks Sponsored by: Windiam The NAJ Awards would not be possible “Kerry Gregory’s energy, passion and without the support of NAJ members and empathy really stand out. Gemmology Rocks Team of the Year – The PA Jewellery sponsors, and in particular we welcomed doesn’t just deliver education and support, Team online diamond marketplace Nivoda as it gets to the heart of clients’ businesses headline sponsor. Nivoda, which operates and delves deeper to find out the biggest “There is clear evidence of the team pride globally with offices in London, Mumbai and challenges they face, and what they truly in going the extra mile, working together to Hong Kong, has a vision to build a trusted need to succeed.” exceed expectations and supporting and marketplace for the jewellery industry, where respecting each other.” suppliers and retailers come to find everything Shortlist: Magpie Europe, Presman they need to best serve their customers and Mastermelt, Clark Diamonds and Pursuit Shortlist: Charlotte Cornelius, Clogau strengthen their profits. Sponsored by: Parify Gold, The Jewellery Cut and Purely Diamonds “I’m extremely thankful to award sponsors Sponsored by: T.H. March Nivoda, Windiam, Clogau, Presman Retailer of the Year – Purely Diamonds, Mastermelt, TH March, Parify, Inhorgenta, Manchester Hockley Mint, Clarity & Success, Pursuit, Designer of the Year – Julien Riad International Jewellery London and VM & “Scoring 100 per cent in the judge’s review, Sahyoun Events Ltd, many of whom have shown long Purely Diamonds was praised for being an term commitment to this event. Thanks also extremely pleasant shopping experience; “Exciting and innovative jewellery with goes to the trophy and Champagne sponsor, remembered for the beautiful rings, excellent a strong brand identity to support it – Champions UK,” Forrester adds. prices and personal one-to-one touch. “I encapsulating everything that is good about came away smiling.” UK contemporary jewellery making.” The winners were presented with a Shortlist: Clogau Gold, John McKay Shortlist: Erica Sharpe, Arabel Lebrusan, beautifully stylish megalith pewter trophy Jewellers and Time & Motion Jewellers Charlotte Cornelius, Vicki Smith kindly sponsored by branding agency Sponsored by: Hockley Mint Sponsored by: Clogau Champions (UK). Sponsors
22 Member Benefits The Jeweller Get the Most from your Membership Introducing the Keep an eye on the Find a Jeweller 2.0 NAJ community market with Mintel Since the launch of the new NAJ website in barometer, Find a reports November 2018, the team has been working hard to refine areas of the website in order to maximise exposure and conversions for Jeweller 2.0 and Mintel has been providing substantial industry data reports regarding the industry members. a reminder of your retail market for many years, giving invaluable insight for businesses on areas An increasingly popular feature is the Find a Jeweller search, which has just received a Better Business that are seeing success or decline. significant update. Because each NAJ member has a unique, customisable profile, we’ve taken Support Service. According to Mintel’s latest report (2019), demand for jewellery and watches in the on feedback from both the membership and the consumer to amend the search console and UK has increased; sales were up 2.9 per cent now offer advanced filters such as ‘Created in in 2018 and growth is expected to be even the UK’, ‘Gold Standard’ and ‘RJC Certification’ stronger in 2019. In fact, Mintel estimates highlighting to consumers and the trade, that the market will increase by 3.5 per cent members’ credentials. NAJ Insight Tools – in 2019, bringing its value to £5.9 billion, from £5.7 billion 12 months previous. Find a Jeweller 2.0 brings together suppliers, Barometer retailers, designers and associates; rather than have multiple search pages, all members will Keeping up to date with the latest trends be under one roof, with the improved console and sales figures can help future-proof filtering results accordingly. We are excited to introduce the newest feature your business, allowing you to predict the to the NAJ website – the Jewellery Retailer upcoming season and adjust your strategies Good news for the NAJ team is for the Barometer. This community barometer is accordingly. increasing numbers of consumer enquiries updated quarterly and is available for all NAJ into the office, the ‘email results’ button will members to view in the Member Area of the NAJ members can take advantage of the send the results directly into the mailbox of the website, in the form of several charts. Mintel report with 25 per cent off the full customer for their information. If you haven’t price (£1,995). To claim your discount code, updated your profile yet, now is the time to do This activity aims to understand the issues contact marketing@naj.co.uk. so in order to stand out from the crowd. that retailers are facing and how they are affecting business. For example, the barometer looks at whether members have reported sales increasing during the last quarter along with staff hours and whether NAJ members can take advantage of the The new and updated Find a Jeweller is these changes were expected by the business. Mintel report with 25 per cent off the full now live, and members can use the step by price (£1,995). To claim your discount step ‘update your profile’ tool by visiting Alongside current happenings, the barometer code, contact marketing@naj.co.uk naj.co.uk/updatemyprofile. also looks at future developments such as whether businesses are looking to sell or buy stores, recruit more staff, or enrol on training, which complements the ‘optimism index’; feedback on how optimistic members are about the next quarter of trading. If you are a retail business interested in taking part in this exercise, look out for our barometer alert in your quarterly NAJ newsletter. To submit your answers and view the latest report visit naj.co.uk/barometer
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