NAJ News
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The Jeweller
“Once again, Congress inspired and lit that fire within to push myself a little more to be a better business and better boss.” Harriet France
On 13th September, the NAJ closed the doors on its ground-breaking inaugural Summit after a positive whirlwind three days. If you weren’t able to attend, here’s what you missed.
Review: The NAJ Summit 2021 T
he event trialled a new format for the Association – our annual networking opportunities and conferences streamlined into a single occasion to provide greater cross industry collaboration and conversation. Building on its inaugural success, the 2022 NAJ Summit will again feature the Valuers’ Conference and Retail Jewellers’ Congress as well as the Members’ Gala Dinner and Supplier Showcase – the latter to be in a revised format.
“Topics were very relevant to us and up to date. The speakers and workshops I attended were extremely helpful.” Hanna Suma, HC Jewellers
The Summit will return to the De Vere Staverton Estate, Northamptonshire, from Friday 10th to Monday 13th June 2022. Comprising talks, workshops and masterclasses from inspirational leaders and jewellery experts, the 2022 Summit will span four days, with the Valuers’ Conference taking place from late Friday afternoon until late Sunday afternoon, avoiding an overlap with Monday’s Retail Jewellers’ Congress. Furthermore, the now one-day Supplier Showcase (Sunday) will benefit from protected time in the programme so more visitors can attend this important part of the event ahead of the Members’ Gala Dinner that same evening. Gary Wroe, NAJ chair, said: “It was important we listened to feedback on all
elements of this year’s Summit before putting plans together for 2022. Next June, we’ll minimise overlaps between each event and tweak other elements relating to movement around the venue. Overall comments have been extremely positive with just the odd niggle that we’ve listened and made appropriate adjustments to. I’d like to thank Chris Sellors, who has worked hard behind the scenes to launch the first Summit.” Gary also thanked Continental UK, headline sponsor, for its support, as well as all the speakers, showcase suppliers and attendees for their participation and passion… which was evident throughout. Heather Callaway FIRV, NAJ vice chair, added: “The Summit was a wonderful opportunity for our IRVs to mix professionally and socially with so many