Jewelers of America (JA) is breaking ground with its first National Convention, which will gather industry pros to discuss government moves affecting stores. By bringing leading experts into the room, JA hopes to create a transparent conversation, preparing retailers for happenings in Washington, D.C. that could affect their businesses.
From July 28th-29th, jewellery professionals from around the country will gather at the International Barclay Hotel to focus on steering retail businesses towards growth, while maintaining the ethical standards of membership.
The JA National Convention focuses not only on timeliness, but on forecasting and preparing for a multitude of potential retail futures. Accordingly, Charlie Cook, editor and publisher of The Cook Political Report, will keynote Sunday’s lunch with “Election Outlook 2020.” In the presentation, Cook will highlight how the next presidential election is shaping up, and what a win from either side could mean for the retail marketplace. Cook said, “Politics and policy effects businesses. I’ll be previewing the 2020 presidential race from an objective, non-partisan perspective and will be discussing what factors may be most important in a general election.”
“Policy & Retail: Why What Happens in D.C. Matters” is a David Bonaparte, president and CEO of JA. breakout session presenting a high-level overview of taxes and tariffs. JA noted that with so many rapid changes and trade agreements, it is essential for retailers to consider all possible outcomes, including what questions they may need to be asking their vendors.
Jason Straczewski, vice president of government relations and political affairs at the National Retail Federation (NRF), has partnered with the National Convention to educate store owners about governmental affairs, helping them develop small and large business strategies to support their growth.
Advocating for independent jewellers, David Bonaparte, president and CEO of JA, said,
“JA fights for the needs of all of our members – large and small. The National Convention’s goal is to bring independent jewellers from across the country together so they can be well-informed about every aspect of their business, ensuring the legacy of family businesses continues to thrive. Their fight is our fight.”