Gerald Ratner and John Timpson will be guest speakers at the UK Jewellery Business Conference in Birmingham next month.
Ratner, who infamously referred to his eponymous business’ jewellery as ‘total crap’ will talk candidly about the highs and lows of his career, including the famous remark which saw his business drop in value by an estimated £500million before his resignation in 1992. The business was later renamed Signet Group.
The event will be hosted by BBC Breakfast’s Bill Turnbull, who will also introduce John Timpson, chief executive of Timpsons, the shoe repair, key cutting and watch repair business.
Other speakers at the two day event (7-8 October) include Andrew McMillan from John Lewis, author Damian Hughes and trends and branding expert Paola de Luca.
The event is organised by the Company of Master Jewellers and open to its retail members and approved suppliers.
Willie Hamilton, CMJ chief executive, said: “Where else can suppliers and retailers in our great sector, meet over two days to exchange views, learn from each other and build solid, mutually beneficial relationships? Brilliant Together sums up the relationship between the CMJ, its members and suppliers, and also reflects the burgeoning growth of activity between us all. We are good for each other.”
Tickets, including hotel accommodation and all meals, can be booked through the CMJ website for £195.
