Houlden Group joins British Jewellers’ Association
LONDON, October 5, 2012 – The Houlden Group, a buying group of independent retailers, has joined the British Jewellers’ Association (BJA).
Established in 1975, the Houlden Group has over 30 members, representing around 80 stores, with a combined turnover of over 200 million pounds: a significant trading consortium with substantial buying power.
“The Houlden Group recognises that belonging to a trade association inspires consumer confidence and enhances the reputation of its members,” it said in a statement.
Stuart Laing, CEO, Houlden Group
The British Jewellers’ Association (BJA) acts for the British jewellery industry, with the power to influence major issues including ethical trading, safety, technical, training, and relationships with domestic and international decision makers.
Simon Rainer, Chief Executive of the BJA, said, “We have watched and welcomed the Houlden Group’s excellent work with young British designers, many of whom are BJA members.
“Our plan is to work closely together in order that the BJA can introduce new and exciting jewellery design talent to the Houlden membership.”
The Houlden Group will now be part of a fast growing UK jewellery trade association with nearly 1,100 members representing all aspects of the jewellery supply chain.
Some of the benefits of membership will be Houlden’s access to the BJA’s training programmes and up to date industry information relating to legal, technical and political issues.
Stuart Laing, CEO, Houlden Group , said, “It makes great sense to work together more closely; the industry is always changing and in order to continue to grow and prosper we need to keep encouraging and nurturing the excellent design talent that is coming through. ”
