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Jewellery: an insider’s view
Listed under: Trend Report
Published: Monday, June 21, 2010
Colin Ells, co-owner of Creative Beadcraft, speaks to Craft Business about the ever-changing jewellery sector
“The jewellery-making market has become increasingly important over the past few years, and also a lot more fashion orientated than it once was, meaning suppliers have needed to be much more pro-active and in touch with the latest trends. The sector has also become increasingly innovative, with higher-quality beads and components now readily accessible and affordable.
Over the past few years, we have definitely noticed a rise in the demand for higher quality and more unusual and interesting ranges of beads – something I believe reflects the huge growth in this area of the market. Moreover, there is a much wider range of people expressing an interest in beading, with everyone from highly-skilled designers and those looking for something quick to make, to everyday hobbyists taking up the pastime.
The huge growth in the internet has also opened up the market and, again, pushed suppliers to ensure they are in touch with what's in demand so they can stay ahead of the competition. What's more, the way goods are presented has also improved markedly, with the emergence of affordable technology and more awareness of the importance of product presentation in general, both driving up standards in the industry.
Suppliers are also having to be a lot more imaginative, particularly when it comes to catering for different customers. As a business with 90 years of experience behind us, we have always evolved with the times, however, the rate of change definitely appears to be accelerating.
In today's market, suppliers need to be able to stand out and offer differentiated items at competitive prices, as well as good service and product knowledge. Consumers will be looking for businesses that can deliver 'added value'. As a company, we are increasingly providing detailed product and user information for our trade customers, and will continue to be build on this so they are better informed and can, in turn, pass this on to their customers.”
