The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ), Britain’s biggest jewellery and watches buying group, plans to intensify its membership drive at IJL and sign up retailers from across the country.

“A key focus for the CMJ is to increase our membership numbers and — with one in two cities and towns without membership representation — there is huge potential,” said Amber Saunders, CMJ’s business development manager.

“IJL provides the ideal platform for us to promote our strategy of boosting membership and connecting in person with prospective members.”

Retailers are welcome to visit CMJ’s stand at IJL to discuss the benefits of joining, including access to discounted ordering opportunities from a big choice of suppliers at twice-yearly CMJ Trade Events, as well as networking events throughout the year.

Suppliers and retailer members of the CMJ reported strong orders at the most recent “new look” CMJ Trade Event held earlier this month at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole at the NEC.

CMJ has welcomed four new members so far in 2019: Townhall Treasures, City Jewellers, Atkinsons the Jewellers, and Saul Cass.

“We have targeted over 100, carefully selected prospective retailers inviting them to join us at IJL to learn more about the benefits of becoming a CMJ member,” Amber said.

“We are aware of the importance of recruiting retailers with the right ‘fit’ for our organisation, and accordingly we conduct careful due diligence to ensure the partnership is mutually beneficial.”

As part of the membership drive, CMJ has launched a “Perfect Piece” campaign to help retailers deliver a service their customers will cherish.

The Perfect Piece series, highlighting individuals’ favourite pieces of jewellery, rediscovers and celebrates the meaning behind our most precious jewellery and timepieces.

CMJ will also be raising its profile at IJL by taking part in a number of activities, including:

• Sponsoring the “Knowledge Hub” area at IJL;
• Presenting an award at the “Leading Lights” ceremony;
• Taking part in a panel discussion seminar, “Helping Young Designers become more Commercially Aware”;
• Sponsoring the Supplier of the Year category at the Professional Jewellery awards.

Helen Dimmick, Consultant to CMJ and interim business leader, said: “Hot off the heels of a successful and revised Trade Event, the CMJ will once again showcase its value in providing unprecedented support, networking, value and inspiration for retailers looking for resources in an ever more challenging environment.

“Never has the need for joining the CMJ been more relevant — prospective members should come and see us and start the conversation that will revolutionise their businesses.”

CMJ will be exhibiting at International Jewellery London (IJL), at Olympia from September 1-3, at stand number E30.