Brisk retailer enquiries at CMJ March trade event
BIRMINGHAM, March 16, 2014 – Independent retailers turned out in force on the first day of the March 16-17 trade event of the Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ), the UK and Ireland’s biggest buying group, auguring well for new orders.
A strengthening UK economy sent a positive signal to exhibitors.
“The UK economy is doing better than its neighbours in continental Europe, so this market is looking positive,” said Aurelio Cavalieri of diamond brand Arctic Circle, part of the Martin Ross group.
Retailer enquiries were buoyant at many stands, including Gemex, Continental Jewellery (UK), and London Pearl Ltd.
Willie Hamilton, chief executive of Company of Master Jewellers
Gemex’s managing director, Lee Ruben, said that while the signs of recovery in the UK economy were encouraging, the direct impact on bridal jewellery demand was limited as people get married regardless of economic trends.
Among the rising stars of UK jewellery design, Alexander Davis presented a new app that allows retailers to configure bridal rings to suit different requirements and price points.
Fei Liu is focusing more on his keenly priced bridal range, presented at the CMJ trade meeting, brand manager Jo Henderson said.
Rachel Galley spoke of growing interest by retailers in her high-end Luxe range.
Lisa McMyn talked of strong retailer enquiries for Scottish silver jewellery brand “I love a lassie”, exhibiting at a CMJ trade event for the first time after presenting new pieces at the INHORGENTA Munich show a few weeks ago.
