Suppliers experience “best event in 15 years” at CMJ spring trade event

Held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel on 17 and 18 February, the event saw more than 100 retail member businesses and more than 80 jewellery and watch suppliers make the journey to Birmingham to network, discuss latest trends and to enjoy an evening of unforgettable entertainment.

Robert Day of Allied Gold was just one supplier to praise the event. He said:

“This has been the best CMJ event for us in the past 15 years by far. We changed how we trade direct with retailers about three years ago, based upon the feedback received from retailers, and we have had to earn our right to be noticed.

“Three years on and we are now being noticed, it’s not all about the buying meeting, you have to do the work both before and after and this event is the perfect platform for this.”

This year saw the group pay for hotel rooms for members as it recognised there are a multitude of exhibitions and that retailers are facing challenging times. It also saw David Meade, fast becoming one of Europe’s key speakers and entertainers, align buying psychology with retail trends and sales and also put a few ‘willing volunteers’ through their paces live on stage.

CMJ CEO, Terry Boot, said:

“There was most definitely a buzz around the place for the whole two days. We realised we had to make changes to make the event even more of a success and this appeared to work as I had many encouraging conversations with members and suppliers.

“I ended up on stage as one of David’s volunteers too. I still don’t know how he read my mind, if that’s what it was, but he most certainly added to the atmosphere and gave us all something to think about as we go back to our day jobs.”

Gary Wroe of Hockley Mint was also impressed with both the atmosphere and the success of the weekend. He said:

“Well done CMJ, the atmosphere of the show was a lot more up-beat with some really positive feedback about product and what the retailer needed to help sell more jewellery.

“Over the two days we experienced higher numbers of visitors to the stand and we wish to thank all the of those members who have expressed their interest in working more closely with Hockley Mint.”

Day added:

“I am graciously thankful, CMJ has put so much effort into making sure retailers are here to meet with suppliers. It’s been busier than I ever remember and this is testament to the whole CMJ team. They have made significant changes, and you can see and feel the difference. This has become the most important buying group event in the calendar.”