Members of the British Jewellers’ Association (BJA) and the National Association of Goldsmiths (NAG) voted to unify the two organisations into the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) on 16 June at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London.
Representing over 2,000 businesses, the NAJ “will strengthen the provision of education, training and lobbying government with a clear vision on raising standards”, creating “a strong brand identity that will be recognised by consumers as a mark of excellence”, says BJA in its press release.
Andrew Hinds, Chairman of NAG said: “I am delighted that we have received the endorsement of our members to complete the merger and I am excited about the future that both of our associations now have as part of a stronger body which speaks for the whole industry. I am confident that our members will see the benefits that we have promised and that even more will follow. We want to work with everyone involved in the wider jewellery trade to ensure that we build on our long and successful history to provide a future in which all types of businesses can both survive and thrive.”
Gary Wroe, Chairman of BJA added: “With the unification of both Associations, I am incredibly positive about the association's potential. Combining the knowledge and expertise from both associations, I am confident that the NAJ will have an invaluable influence on the jewellery industry, improving brand identity, ensuring the maximum consumer confidence and ultimately creating an association that our members can be proud of.”
Kate Owen President of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) commented: “The future looks very positive with 250 years of combined history and experience of the two associations underpinned by the Federations’ commitment to facilitate this historic moment for the future of the jewellery Industry.”
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