To be launched at the International Jewellery Fair (IJF) in Sydney on 19-21 August, Jewellers Den will provide young Australian designers exposure to the wider jewellery industry and introduce them to potential investors in a startup business.
Fair organiser, Gary Fitz-Roy said, “New and up-and-coming jewellery designers have the power to help shape the future of the Australian jewellery industry but first they must be ‘discovered’ and then nurtured towards success. And that's why we’re thrilled to announce our new initiative to support local designers.”
He explained: “Jewellers Den is a dedicated pavilion-type area provided free of charge on the main floor where new designers can connect with industry professionals, showcase their work at the Fair, and pitch their brand and business to a panel of industry experts.
“The prize package could set them up for immediate and ongoing success. In short, Jewellers Den is a platform where they can meet potential investors who can help them take their business to the next level.”
The actual Jewellers Den area will consist of around 20 participating Australian designers who exhibit their products and designs over the three days at the fair – at no cost – and on the Sunday each designer makes a presentation to the panel who will decide the winner.
The prize package has been created as a means to professionally launch the business and/or products into the Australian, and perhaps, international markets.
Leading Australian supplier Palloys is providing $5,000 of manufacturing materials and services while Nationwide Jewellers – Australia and New Zealand’s largest retail group – will endorse the winner as a preferred supplier.
Nationwide will provide six months of support to the designer by promoting the products in its member communications guaranteeing positive cash flow for the business. The designer will also be free to supply other independent retailers.
While the Palloys and Nationwide Jewellers sponsorships assist in manufacturing and supply, the designer will need assistance in running the business. The Deb Templar Group has agreed to offer six months of commercial advice, training and mentoring to cover branding and other retail management expertise. This component is valued at $6,000.
Befindan Media, publisher of Jeweller, has also agreed to support Jewellers Den.
Publisher Angela Han said, “This is a wonderful idea because the future of the Australian jewellery industry lies in the hands of creative people,” she said.
“It’s important that we're actively nurturing the next generation, and this initiative could not have come at a better time; there is no shortage of hidden talent that's waiting to be uncovered, especially after COVID where skills and creativity have had time to incubate."
“Local apprentices and designers should think of this as ‘Kickstarter for Young Jewellers’!”
Befindan Media has agreed to provide a 12-month advertising and marketing package to the value of $10,000 covering both its print and digital platforms.
Fitz-Roy said, “While the initial idea was to help young jewellers in Australia get a headstart, Jeweller magazine’s enormous worldwide reach could see the designs being picked up internationally.”
He added, “The aim of Jewellers Den and the launch prize is to promote the story behind the designer who created that piece? How did they get their start? What inspired them to pursue a career in jewellery design? We are hoping to see the future faces of the industry kickstart their career as a supplier to the trade.
“This is an incredible opportunity for young jewellers to get the exposure they need to succeed in the competitive world of design. It's a chance to make connections, get feedback, and learn from experienced professionals who can help them launch, grow and establish their business.”
Apprentices, young jewellers and designers who would like to participate in Jewellers Den must complete an application form to be considered as one of the 20 exhibitors.
» Jewellers wishing to participate in Jewellers Den can register here
» Industry suppliers who would like to support the initiative can email Nick Fewtrell
» For further information visit the International Jewellery Fair website
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