The NAJ JET Business Network (JBN) announces Retail Jewellers’ Congress theme

During the JBN Regional Meetings in February 2022, JBN Members agreed that their two biggest post-lockdown challenges are centered on digital efficiency and growth, as well as hiring and maintaining staff. These are the same issues that were singled out pre-lockdown, suggesting the impact of COVID-19 has not changed core business concerns for independent retail jewellers.

The theme for this year's Congress, therefore, continues the precedent set in 2021, with the title being: "Grow your Presence, Grow your People, Grow your Profit - Part 2."

Michael Donaldson, JBN facilitator and organiser of the Retail Jewellers' Congress, comments: "As tempting as it may be to change the theme for the sake of changing the theme, the reality of the jewellery retail sector is that the main challenges have not changed - they remain Digital and People.

"What will change, however, is the expert speaker line up and the session content to help every retailer grasp the opportunities of digital and the challenges of leading their people."

Scott Williams, Head of Membership Services at the NAJ, adds: "Despite the upheaval and disruption of the events of the past two years, it is clear the challenges our retail members face remains consistent. This year's Retail Jewellers' Congress promises to deliver another information-packed timetable of talks. The theme will no doubt provide attendees with plenty of food for thought and actionable advice they can take back to their businesses."

Last year's Retail Jewellers' Congress hosted at Staverton Park Hotel featured a range of guest speakers, including April Trigg, Search Engine Marketing Specialist at Brace Creative Agency; Nicholas Wainwright, Chairman of Boodles; Polly Barnfield OBE, the founder and CEO of Maybe*, and Amanda Simon, Head of People Engagement at Beaverbrooks, among others.

The JET Business Network (JBN) has been delivering value through shared knowledge, experience, and expertise since 2005.

The network continues to be successful in promoting business growth for all members by providing a unique opportunity for independent jewellery retail owners and directors to meet with like-minded professionals in a condential forum that fosters supportive and trusting relationships.

Due to take place across an extended weekend from June 10-13, 2022, the NAJ Summit is an unmissable experience in the jewellery tradeshow calendar.

The event's schedule includes the three-day Valuers' Conference, hosted by the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV); a one-day Supplier Showcase; the NAJ Members' Gala Dinner and The NAJ Awards 2022; the JET Business Network's Retail Jewellers' Congress, and a series of Better Business seminars and workshops.

www.naj.co.uk/jet-business-network