NAJ Retail Congress event sees uplift in attendance

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has reported a 20% increase in attendance at its recent Retail Congress.

The event, which was held at Drayton Manor Resort on Tuesday, brought together industry leaders and business owners to help jewellers navigate economic headwinds and evolving best practices.

The speaker line-up was integral to the Retail Congress event, with highlight speakers including Liz Barclay, former UK Small Business Commissioner, and Roisin Hurley-Gondim, former global director of retail excellence at Burberry.

“Retail Congress 2026 demonstrated the strength, resilience and ambition of our independent retail community,” said the NAJ’s chief executive, Ben Massey. 

“With significant growth in attendance, it is clear that jewellers are seeking practical, trusted guidance from invited expertise as well as from each other. The quality of insight shared throughout the day, combined with the openness for delegates to share and support one another, ensures that attendees leave better equipped to succeed, make confident decisions and build stronger businesses for the future.”