Jason Allum announced as new CMJ chairman

The UK’s largest watch and jewellery buying group, Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ), has named one of its founding members as its new chairman.

Jason Allum, director of South West jeweller Allum & Sidaway, will assume his new position from August 2026 when he will replace the current chair, Michael Aldridge, of Neil & Barker.

“The CMJ is a very special organisation that I am proud to be part of,” said Allum. “It is a huge honour to have been asked back onto the board of directors and to fill the position of chairman in August 2026. 

“Michael Aldridge has conducted his chairmanship with the utmost dedication to the CMJ’s success. I am committed to building on our core values and contributing to the growth of both our retailers’ and suppliers’ businesses. I very much look forward to working alongside my fellow directors and our MD Patrick Turner in guiding the CMJ forward and into a very bright future.”

On stepping down from his position after nine years, Aldridge said: “It has been an immense privilege to lead such a respected organisation and to work alongside an exceptional board, executive team and membership. Throughout my tenure, we have strengthened strategic partnerships, supported our independent jewellers through a period of significant industry change, and continued to uphold the values that define our group.

“I am particularly pleased to welcome our new managing director Patrick Turner and have every confidence that his leadership will further build on our strong foundations and serve our members well.

“I wish Jason every success and know that the Company of Master Jewellers is in very safe hands.”