Michael Allchin was pleased to contribute to the Company of Master Jewellers’ Conference held at the NEC earlier this week. Michael joined a diverse line up which included the legendary Gabi Tolkowsky, ethical agitator Greg Valerio and football Managing Director turned “Apprentice” celebrity, Karren Brady.   Facilitated by BBC Breakfast’s Bill Turnbull, the two day event promised to cover “every facet” of a jeweller’s business and it certainly delivered.  Presentations varied from Michael’s analysis of current trends in the market to an update on Pension issues and headline speaker Karren Brady’s views on developing a successful business. The event also had a truly international flavour as it welcomed four “Fairtrade” miners from South America to explain, via interpreters, the importance to them of the Fairtrade premium and the challenges their communities are facing.  Willie Hamilton, Chief Executive of the CMJ, also reminded the members present of the importance of working together, with each other and with suppliers, to the benefit of the whole industry. An informal dinner for both members and suppliers certainly encouraged networking and socialising, and Day 2 offered workshops and group discussions to make sure everyone got involved.  Marion Wilson, Sales & Marketing Director of The Birmingham Assay Office said “This was a great conference. Plenty of facts and statistics for anoraks like me who love all that stuff, plus lots of sensible helpful advice on running your business, tips about security, getting the most out of your website and much more. Gathering this kind of information is so time consuming; to have all the appropriate bits delivered to you neatly packaged is brilliant. Congratulations to Willie Hamilton and the every cheerful Lucy Reece Raybould and her team for another extremely professionally run event.”

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