Author: Hugo Jeffryes

A new report from RetailNZ shows that retail crime has surged in New Zealand, with 92% of retailers affected in the past year. This is putting increased pressure on jewellers to prevent theft and protect staff.The RetailNZ Retail Crime Report 2023 estimates the total cost of retail crime to be $2.6 billion annually. This includes $1.35 billion in losses from stolen goods, and additional costs from responding to crime and the impact on staff wellbeing.Shoplifting most commonThe report found that shoplifting was the most prevalent type of retail crime, affecting 82% of retailers over the past 12 months.Jewellery retailers are…

The upcoming GANZ & JVS Combined Conference 2023 in Auckland on 9th and 10th September, co-hosted with the Jewellery Valuers Society, presents a range of topics for discussion and exploration.Agenda OverviewDay 1: 9th SeptemberTimeSpeakerTopic10:00 AM-11:00 AMKym HughesPink Diamonds – The Challenge of Argyle Pink Diamonds11:00 AM-12:00 PMOliver WaldisThe Rise of Rare Synthetics1:00 PM-1:45 PMKym HughesOpals – World of Australian Opal1:45 PM-3:30 PM-Opal WorkshopDay 2: 10th SeptemberTimeSpeakerTopic10:00 AM-10:30 AMJacob FranceyLab-grown Diamonds Workshop10:30 AM-11:00 AMOliver WaldisRare Coloured Synthetic & Natural GemsSee a detailed itinerary and profiles of the speakers here.Practical Engagement plus NetworkingAttendees will have the opportunity for hands-on learning, particularly during…

The jewellery trade in New Zealand is grappling with a surge in ram raids, resulting in significant financial and emotional toll on business owners. A recent incident in Christchurch brought to light the contrasting outcomes of security measures in place, showcasing the effectiveness of fog cannons in deterring such criminal activities.Security Measures in PlayWestende Jewellers, located on Colombo St in Sydenham, narrowly escaped a potentially devastating burglary due to its fog cannon security system. Despite the offenders’ relentless attempts to gain entry by smashing the store’s entrance with a car and later with a hammer, the fog cannons activated, filling…

The government has announced a new subsidy program to help businesses purchase and install fog security devices. This includes jewellery retailers who have been increasingly targeted by robberies.50% Subsidy for Fog DevicesUnder the program, eligible businesses can receive a subsidy that covers up to 50% of the cost of an approved fog security device.To qualify, businesses must meet certain criteria, such as having less than $5 million, below. The fog device must also meet minimum specifications and be installed by an approved security provider.Specific Eligibility CriteriaMore specific eligibility criteria for the subsidy include:$4,000 Subsidy Per OutletEach eligible outlet can receive…