Katie Owen

The result of the General Election ushers in a new chapter for the UK. As Sir Keir Starmer starts his first day in office, Walpole shares the key priorities we will be calling on policymakers in his government to consider: from taxation to trade, employment to environment, The British Luxury Manifesto outlines a summary of the policy changes businesses in our sector need to continue to thrive. The sector is projected to grow to between £105bn and £135bn by 2028. As such, it must be a key part of the government’s plan for growth. The policies in this document would push the sector towards the higher end of that projection, and in doing so would support highly skilled rewarding jobs, UK exports and inward investment. #britishluxury #walpole #generalelection #sirkeirstarmer #ukgrowth #ukgrowthdrivers #business #britishbusiness #labourgovernment https://lnkd.in/e2c98uwE

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Introducing Hyper Drive. The latest feature on Diamnet to revolutionise your in-store experience and boost sales. https://lnkd.in/euYQXT8H

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The price of lab grown diamonds is crashing, meaning their position in the fine jewellery and engagement ring market may be coming to an end sooner than most people thought. In my latest blog, I discuss what is needed for that to happen and the potential casualties. I also note VDB have since removed Rap discounts for lab growns, and the new "Grown Diamond Trade Organization" are promoting their certificates that aren't really diamond certificates. https://lnkd.in/g3asJNgy

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I found this article from The Business of Fashion intriguing by its title, but alas, the question posed wasn't sufficiently answered. There were a couple of points of note that, perhaps, should remain under scrutiny over the next several months. First: "Through glittering megastores, celebrity-fuelled campaigns and shrewd strategies like category segregation that confined image-driving products such as evening dresses to high price ranges, ensuring they were unattainable to most, while pitching others, such as beauty, at price points for the masses, luxury brands have long managed to sell “exclusive” goods by the millions.The marketing was so effective that as brands produced ever-higher volumes of goods, including millions of units of sneakers and sweatshirts, they were able to sacrifice quality standards to help meet growing demand and pad profit margins, all while deploying price hikes that far outpaced inflation, without triggering a backlash." And second: "After a period of post-pandemic exuberance, aspirational consumers have sharply pulled back on luxury shopping, hit by rising interest rates and a cost of living crisis, while China’s millionaire-making machine has stalled, sharpening competition for the smaller pool of wealthier clients who are still spending.In part to protect margins, brands have pushed prices higher still. The average price of luxury goods in Europe has increased by 52 percent since 2019, according to HSBC.But it’s safe to say, the price hikes have not gone down well. They’ve succeeded in pushing aspirants further away. And though the rich have the means to keep shopping, nobody likes to be taken for a ride: on social media, critics now routinely discuss rising prices and reports of deteriorating quality and wonder aloud whether luxury brands are worth it." With these two points, how would you answer the quetsion of "How long will the luxury myth last?" https://lnkd.in/e9qFg_G6

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I found this article from The Business of Fashion intriguing by its title, but alas, the question posed wasn't sufficiently answered. There were a couple of points of note that, perhaps, should remain under scrutiny over the next several months. First: "Through glittering megastores, celebrity-fuelled campaigns and shrewd strategies like category segregation that confined image-driving products such as evening dresses to high price ranges, ensuring they were unattainable to most, while pitching others, such as beauty, at price points for the masses, luxury brands have long managed to sell “exclusive” goods by the millions.The marketing was so effective that as brands produced ever-higher volumes of goods, including millions of units of sneakers and sweatshirts, they were able to sacrifice quality standards to help meet growing demand and pad profit margins, all while deploying price hikes that far outpaced inflation, without triggering a backlash." And second: "After a period of post-pandemic exuberance, aspirational consumers have sharply pulled back on luxury shopping, hit by rising interest rates and a cost of living crisis, while China’s millionaire-making machine has stalled, sharpening competition for the smaller pool of wealthier clients who are still spending.In part to protect margins, brands have pushed prices higher still. The average price of luxury goods in Europe has increased by 52 percent since 2019, according to HSBC.But it’s safe to say, the price hikes have not gone down well. They’ve succeeded in pushing aspirants further away. And though the rich have the means to keep shopping, nobody likes to be taken for a ride: on social media, critics now routinely discuss rising prices and reports of deteriorating quality and wonder aloud whether luxury brands are worth it." With these two points, how would you answer the quetsion of "How long will the luxury myth last?" https://lnkd.in/e9qFg_G6

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Sustainability is a journey and it’s absolutely integral to everything we do at Alexandra Llewellyn. The important thing for me is that the business continues to question, continues to educate and ensure that everything we are doing is as informed as possible. https://lnkd.in/e3p4hqEN

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De Beers Embarks on Ambitious Five-Year Plan to Lead the Luxury Jewellery Market De Beers, the renowned diamond producer currently under the umbrella of Anglo American and now up for sale, has unveiled an ambitious five-year strategy aimed at transforming itself into the premier jewellery brand in the global market Already a key player in the diamond retail sector with boutiques worldwide, CEO Al Cook plans to significantly expand De Beers’ retail presence to rival luxury giants such as Tiffany and Cartier. Cook envisions a future where De Beers evolves from a mining-focused company into a leading jewellery house, leveraging its storied legacy and market influence. "Diamonds' future extends far beyond mining," Cook shared with the Financial Times. "I'm thrilled by the potential to execute our comprehensive strategy, aspiring to establish the world's most prestigious jewellery maison—a vision that transcends traditional mining company boundaries." Central to this transformation is De Beers' "Origins" strategy, which aims to drive demand for mined diamonds by appealing to a new generation of consumers. This initiative includes revitalizing marketing efforts and adopting innovative techniques to enhance the brand’s reach and impact. De Beers is also pivoting away from lab-grown diamonds, ending a six-year venture under its Lightbox brand. While the current inventory of lab-grown stones will continue to be sold over the next year, the company is charting a future focused exclusively on natural diamonds. Strategic Retail Collaborations Key to De Beers’ strategy is strengthening relationships with retail partners. The success of the "Seize the Day" campaign, launched in September 2023 and supported by over 22,000 retail stores, underscores the importance of these collaborations. Future plans include forging strategic alliances with major retailers, exemplified by partnerships with Signet Jewelers in the United States and Chow Tai Fook in China. Having operated independently for most of its 136-year history, De Beers appears poised to reclaim its standalone status. Anglo American acquired an 85% stake in De Beers in 2011, with the remaining shares held by the government of Botswana.

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“𝑰𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆.” - 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒐𝒕𝒐 𝑺𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌𝒂𝒊 The recent actions by Signet Jewelers and De Beers highlight a concerning trend in the diamond industry – a reactive approach that could stifle innovation and ultimately harm consumers. As a lab-grown diamond manufacturer, I believe the future of our industry lies in collaboration and a consumer-centric approach. LGDs offer undeniable benefits: they're sustainable, ethical, and more affordable. Rather than viewing them as a threat, we should embrace them as an opportunity. Let's focus on educating consumers about the unique qualities of both natural and lab-grown diamonds. Let's innovate new products that cater to a wider range of preferences and budgets. Let's foster an environment where both natural and lab-grown diamonds can thrive. The diamond industry is at a crossroads. We can choose a path of competition and fear or a path of collaboration and innovation. The latter will lead to a more vibrant and prosperous future for us all. #diamonds #labgrowndiamonds #sustainability #innovation #collaboration #consumercentric https://lnkd.in/d7YCfd7y

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Calling all jewellery entrepreneurs! What's your golden nugget of advice for newcomers stepping into the dazzling world of jewellery business? From me it would be..... Find your unique style or specialty within the jewellery industry. Whether it's vintage-inspired pieces, eco-friendly designs, or custom creations, carving out your niche will set you apart and attract the right audience. Drop your advice below and let's illuminate the path for aspiring jewellery entrepreneurs together! 💎 #JewelleryWisdom #EntrepreneurialGems

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Pearl Engagement Rings: Bridgerton's Influence Sparks a Summer Trend In the wake of a significant plot twist in the latest Bridgerton episode, the engagement ring adorning Penelope Featherington's finger has captured the imaginations of viewers and jewellery enthusiasts alike Combining diamonds with pearls, this elegant piece has sparked a remarkable surge in demand, with searches for similar designs skyrocketing by an astonishing 5,000%. Emma Fox, jewellery expert at Pandora UK, sheds light on this burgeoning trend, predicting that pearl engagement rings will dominate the summer of 2024. She attributes this surge in popularity to the timeless allure and romantic symbolism embodied by Penelope's ring, which effortlessly blends classic elegance with contemporary charm. "Penelope Featherington's engagement ring has struck a chord with audiences, resonating deeply due to its blend of diamonds and pearls," notes Emma Fox. "This combination epitomizes a rising trend towards vintage-inspired jewellery, which exudes sophistication and romance. As we approach summer, we anticipate a growing demand for pearl engagement rings, celebrated for their purity and enduring beauty." Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the resurgence of pearl engagement rings underscores a broader cultural shift towards embracing timeless designs that evoke nostalgia and elegance. With pearls traditionally symbolizing purity and new beginnings, they are poised to become a favored choice among brides-to-be seeking to infuse their engagements with both historical charm and contemporary flair. As Emma Fox highlights, "The renewed interest in pearl engagement rings is part of a larger trend where individuals are gravitating towards pieces that resonate on a personal and emotional level. Pearls not only symbolize purity and sophistication but also offer a versatile option that complements a wide range of styles and preferences." Pandora UK's insights into jewellery trends indicate a growing appreciation for pieces that transcend mere fashion statements, instead embodying stories and sentiments that resonate deeply with wearers. With the Bridgerton effect continuing to influence consumer tastes, the summer of 2024 promises to be defined by the elegance and allure of pearl engagement rings, marking a return to classic sophistication in the realm of jewellery design.

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BobbysBriefcase Curiosity Q&A: Wonder where the term "bespoke" originated? Originating from the tailoring industry, where bespoke tailoring involves creating custom suits from scratch to fit an individual perfectly, the concept has expanded to various business sectors. In a broader business context, bespoke indicates that something is specially made to order rather than being mass-produced. This can apply to software solutions designed for specific company needs, marketing campaigns crafted for a particular target audience, financial products structured for individual investors, or any other custom service or product. Bespoke offerings are typically associated with a higher level of customer service and a premium value proposition, emphasizing exclusivity and personalization.

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Why Nature Matters As many of you know Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 is guiding its members to reach positive impacts to biodiversity and nature as whole. The first step on this journey for members is to develop a nature roadmap for their company. Last week we were at the JCK first ever sustainability summit to discuss this key topic and launch the Nature Roadmap for public consultation. We thank Marie-Claire Daveu for sharing her expertise and truly leading us forward. We were inspired by M Sanjayan for setting the scene. We received great support from some of our Board members Raj Mehta, Gaetano Cavalieri present there. It was so good to connect with many of our stakeholders that you can see on this picture. Only together we can move the needle. What concrete actions has Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 done till date?   - At the end of 2023 the WJI2030 Nature Primer the first introduction to the topic of business and nature was launched, a first step toward industry - level Nature Roadmap. - We organised an introductory webinar on biodiversity with the explanation of terms, biodiversity , crisis and implications for business. A special attention was given to the potential impacts of  the industry on biodiversity - We organised a webinar on the nature positive journey with review of all relevant frameworks, - We organised many helpdesk sessions with experts to help advance our members in their journey, initiatives and regulations. - We launched our Industry Nature Roadmap that is now open for public consultation. You can download it here https://lnkd.in/e_wMQzat           We need to keep learning together, formally and informally and create a safe space for collaborative action aimed towards nature positive future and for this reason, we collaborate with our other 2 pillars climate action and inclusiveness in developing aligned approaches and links between the pillars. This is a call for action. #Partnershipsforthegoals #Nature

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Support a Worthy Cause and Discover the Luxurious and Eco-Friendly Alpaca Fleece! Are you seeking high-quality, sustainable, eco-friendly fibre for your crafting needs? Look no further! Walking with Alpacas Lincolnshire Rescue offers the perfect alpaca fleece for you. They are excited to provide a range of fleece cuts to suit every purpose, from crafting to gardening. Here's a detailed look at what is available: Firsts (blanket cut) - £10 per Bag Their first cut, often called the blanket cut, is the crème de la crème of alpaca fleece. This is the softest and finest fleece part, perfect for creating luxurious garments and accessories. Each bag is carefully cleaned and packaged in its paper bag to ensure the highest quality. Seconds (legs and necks) - £5 per Bag They also have seconds available, sorted by colour. This Fleece comes from the leg and neck areas and is perfect for various uses, including felting, spinning, and knitting. Choose from white, cream, brown, or black to suit your project's needs. Each bag is filled with quality fleece. Thirds (Mixed Fleece) - £3 per Bag Their thirds are mixed, Fleece. Fleece is ideal for mulch or other garden uses. This bag is perfect for enhancing their garden with an eco-friendly, natural material. Alpaca fleece mulch is known for retaining moisture and suppressing weeds, making it a fantastic addition to any garden. Why Choose Alpaca Fleece? Soft and Luxurious: Alpaca fleece is lightweight and warmer than sheep's wool. It's hypoallergenic and doesn't contain lanolin, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Durable and Strong: Alpaca fleece is solid and durable despite its softness, ensuring its garments and products are long-lasting. Thermal Insulation: Alpaca fleece offers excellent thermal insulation, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Eco-Friendly: Alpacas have a gentle impact on the environment. Their soft, padded feet do not damage the ground, and their grazing habits promote healthy pastures. The Fleece itself is biodegradable and sustainable. Versatile Uses: Alpaca fleece is versatile and can be used in numerous applications, from crafting luxurious garments to providing excellent garden mulch. Supporting a Worthy Cause Every penny from selling this Fleece goes directly into the pot to cover the food and vet bills for rescued alpacas. By purchasing their fleece, you get a high-quality, eco-friendly product that supports the well-being and care of these beautiful, rescued animals. To purchase or for more information, please contact Walking with Alpacas Lincolnshire Rescue via Facebook. #AlpacaFleece #EcoFriendly #Sustainable #Crafting #Gardening #AlpacaRescue #SupportRescue #Lincolnshire #NaturalFiber #Hypoallergenic #OrganicGardening #EcoLiving #GreenThumb #Handmade #SupportLocal #AnimalWelfare #AlpacaLovers #WarmAndSoft #GardenMulch #FiberArts

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🌟 Join the Revolution in Luxury Sleep 🌟 I'm thrilled to share my recent pitch for Varg and Stallion Inc. at a prestigious event. Our mission? To redefine luxury distribution and tackle the US sleep deprivation crisis head-on. 🔗 Watch the Pitch Here: https://lnkd.in/evnHBe5r 🌍 In today's world, many wonder, "What's wrong with people 😠 today?" The answer is often simple: sleep deprivation. Our society undervalues sleep, treating it as the enemy of productivity. But the truth is, better sleep leads to better living. 😴✨ At Varg and Stallion, we believe in the transformative power of quality sleep. Our partnership with Hästens, renowned for their handcrafted, natural material beds, ensures that our clients experience unparalleled luxury and wellness. 🛌💤 📊 The Sleep Market by the Numbers: • 70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep issues. • The global sleep market is projected to grow from $432 billion to $585 billion by 2024. • The US economy loses $411 billion annually due to insufficient sleep. Imagine a world where we wake up refreshed, productive, and at our best. That's the vision we're working towards. 🌅💪 💡 Why Invest in Us? • Proven business model with 18 flagship showrooms in the US and over 10 in development. • Targeting top-tier markets with high-income demographics. • Exceptional ROI and market potential. Let's transform the future of sleep together. Interested in learning more? Contact me to discuss how you can be part of this revolutionary journey. 🌟🚀 #LuxurySleep #InvestmentOpportunity #SleepRevolution #VargAndStallion #Hästens #BetterSleepBetterLife #WakeUpWorld #WhenBusinessIsLove #WeSleepDoYou  

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Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 launches the Nature Roadmap at JCK to address the nature crisis and the role to act for the global watch and jewellery industry Today at the JCK Las Vegas Sustainability Summit, the Watch and Jewellery Initiative 2030 (WJI 2030) launched the Nature Roadmap, which provides a framework for businesses to act together in response to the nature and biodiversity crisis with guidance on the key steps that companies need to take – Assess, Commit, Transform, and Disclose. The Nature Roadmap is the result of a collaborative effort between WJI 2030 members and leading industry and biodiversity experts. This comprehensive Roadmap distils information on available frameworks, leading practices, and expert knowledge, providing a clear path for companies to make meaningful contributions to biodiversity. As a living document, the Nature Roadmap will continually evolve, responding to changes in the nature-business landscape to remain relevant and effective. Biodiversity is crucial for the watch and jewellery industry. All companies are dependent on the biological diversity, natural resources, and ecosystem services provided by nature. A clear understanding of the relationship between business, nature and biodiversity is a crucial first step. Recognizing this, WJI 2030 is committed to leading the sector in promoting sustainable practices that protect and restore nature. Nature is in crisis. The entire world is losing biodiversity at an alarming rate and climate change is fuelling the loss of ecosystems. Risk analysis shows that businesses cannot survive without nature and its many essential services. The watch and jewellery sector is up against the same challenges. Extractive mining, chemical use in processes, water use in production steps all put our sector in a nature hot seat! Such dire analysis can make many feel at a loss: how can just one company single-handedly help invert the curve of biodiversity loss to a curve of regeneration and ensure resilience for the future? “Science and innovation can help businesses be one of the most significant contributors for generating a positive impact on nature and climate. In recent years, the need to act for nature has gained awareness and the international community has put it at the top of the list of risks and opportunities to embrace. Much hope sits in businesses’ particular capacity to help accelerate and scale systemic change for greater resilience. WJI 2030 is here to support its members and pave the way for the wider industry, regardless of their current progress in their biodiversity journey.” The launch of the Nature Roadmap marks a significant milestone for WJI 2030 and its members. It reflects its collective commitment to sustainability and the vision for a future where business and nature thrive together.

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