The Time Out Conference began on Friday and concluded on Monday and ran in conjunction with the Australian Jewellery Fair.
The theme of this year’s conference was ‘Time to Thrive’ and proceedings began with an address from managing director Colin Pocklington about the state of the jewellery industry.
Membership manager Erin Keller said the address resonated with members and provided an optimistic outlook for trading in the year ahead.
“Colin’s industry update was both honest and optimistic: independent jewellers are well-positioned to succeed in the years ahead, especially when backed by the strength and support of a like-minded network,” she told Jeweller.
“Many members expressed that they felt armed with inspiration and renewed positivity to head back to their stores, especially with so much impending uncertainty.”
More than 150 people attended the conference, which included two special presentations from international guests – Tammy Kelly from Stuller and Rahil Shah from Mireya UK - on broader industry trends and practices. General manager Glen Pocklington also provided several presentations on digital marketing.
The conference concluded with a ‘Diamonds and Denim’ theme dinner, which Keller said was the ideal way to wrap up a productive gathering.
“One sentiment was echoed again and again: how good it was to be together! With exciting new initiatives in place, valuable insights gained, and friendships deepened, the Nationwide community is more connected and more motivated than ever,” she said.
“The future looks bright, and for our members, it’s clearly time to thrive.”
As previously reported, Nationwide has also increased its financing program, and members can now access a six-month interest-free allocation of between $30,000 and $80,000.
The buying group also confirmed an increase to its support package for jewellery and watchmaking apprentices. Nationwide Jewellers has linked with Showcase Jewellers and the Independent Jewellers Collective to push for more significant support for apprentices.
Nationwide Jewellers is Australia’s largest jewellery industry buying group, accounting for 290 members and 364 stores. An additional 74 members and 85 stores are based in New Zealand and Fiji.
Nationwide Jewellers - 2025 Time Out Conference
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