Jewellery Quarter Hosts First Jewellers’ Meet-Up Amid Storm Claudia
20 Nov 2025
Despite the challenging weather conditions brought by Storm Claudia, the Jewellery Quarter’s first jewellers’ meet-up saw an impressive turnout.
The event brought together a diverse mix of workshops, retailers, and service suppliers, united by a shared commitment to strengthening the Jewellery Quarter community.
Special thanks go to sponsors and supporters: JQ BID, JQdt, Betts, TH March, and Freeform Fabrication, whose contributions made this gathering possible.
Rachel Morrish, of RE Morrish, who helped to put on the day, also gave an update on the work that has been going on in the background to challenge the sale of local commercial property owned by the Council.
“Recent press coverage has resulted in a request for the council to talk to us directly, as well as bring forward interest from private buyers wishing to preserve workshops for the trade amid the recent World Craft City status.”
“These developments highlight the growing recognition of the Jewellery Quarter’s importance and the power of collective action.”
Ben Massey, NAJ Chief Executive, said,
“With several members in the Quarter, supporting the development of a community is essential. We need to need to ensure the community is connected to one another, and also to the national agenda.
“Through 2026, the Association will also be hosting similar events in Scotland, Ireland, Wales and different parts of England to support local communities across the membership.”
Key Themes from jewellers of the JQ
Jewellers agreed on the importance of coming together to build a stronger, more integrated community. While there is a clear immediate driver by recent developments, such as the Council’s intended sale of premises, there is an integrated community to support each other on pressing issues identified during the session. This includes:
- People – Attracting new talent into the industry and retaining skilled staff.
- Place – Addressing declining footfall, improving local signage, and tackling homelessness.
- Support – Accessing funding, education routes, and expert advice.
- Costs – Managing rising business expenses, including rent and materials.
These developments highlight the growing recognition of the Jewellery Quarter’s importance and the power of collective action. Attendees recognised that the event was just the beginning. The momentum from this first meet-up has set an anticipation to drive future collaboration, ensuring the Jewellery Quarter remains a thriving hub for the jewellery industry.
The Jewellers of the Jewellery Quarter will host the next meet-up at 6pm on 11th February 2026. Workshops, Retailers, Service Suppliers, and local landlords are all welcome.
Register for the next Jewellers of the JQ meet-up
Source: National Association of Jewellers