May 2011 -  Issue 8 - YOUR JA  MEMBER ID:
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IN THIS ISSUE
Cost of Doing Business Survey
TIP: Improve Cost of Business
JCK Show Luncheon Invite
Visit Us at the JCK Show
Pics from AGS Fashion Show
Welcome New Members
Ultimate Proposal Contest
TIP: Web Video How-Tos
Purchasing Scrap Metals
Live Action Center @ JCK Show
JA CEO on Diamond Dialogue Panel
BUSINESS

2011 Cost of Doing Business Survey -- Get a Free Report
As a JA Member, you have the exclusive opportunity to receive a FREE customized 2011 Cost of Doing Business Report ($150 retail) when it is published this summer. Simply complete the 2011 Survey -- with 1/3 fewer questions this year -- by May 31. In the ever-changing luxury retail marketplace, you need every competitive advantage available to you.

TIP: Survey Helps Retailers Improve Cost of Doing Business
With the Cost of Doing Business Survey underway, we've been posting quick tips from previous Cost of Doing Business Reports on our Facebook page to show the benchmarking data it reveals. We've included some highlights here.

NEWS

JCK Show Event Invite: Responsible Jewellery Council Luncheon 

You are invited to attend a special complimentary luncheon hosted by the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) at the JCK Show, on Sunday, June 5, from 12:00pm to 1:00pm. During lunch, learn about the RJC from industry-leading organizations and how joining can help your business. JA CEO & President Matthew A. Runci is the RJC Chairman and strongly recommends RJC membership. The luncheon will be held at Mandalay Bay Convention Center, 3rd Floor, in Room Jasmine A.  You must register to attend. Click here to register. We look forward to seeing you there!

Visit Us at JCK Show Las Vegas
We want to see you at the Las Vegas Shows! Stop by Jewelers of America's booth #L110 at JCK Las Vegas, June 3-6, 2011, to say hello, discover show specials and spin our popular Prize Wheel -- you could win Kindles, Visa Gift Cards and more! Plus, don't miss JA-led seminars . . .

JIC Co-Produces Fashionable Jewelry Runway Show for AGS Conclave
Check out the first pictures from the AGS Supplier Jewelry Fashion Show, which Jewelry Information Center produced. The high-fashion event showcased the jewelry of 25 Suppliers for an audience of 400+ AGS Members . . .

Welcome New Retail Members!
Our national network of retail jewelry professionals keeps growing. Between April 15-May 15, Jewelers of America accepted 17 new Retail Members. The jewelry companies have locations throughout the U.S. from California to New York! Meet your new JA peers.




MARKETING

JIC's Ultimate Proposal Contest: Top Referring Sales Associates
The final days of the Ultimate Proposal Contest entry period are here! Entries are accepted through Monday, May 23 at 12pm EST -- so continue to promote the Contest to your customers! Jewelers of America congratulates the first five winners of the Sales Associates Referral Contest ... 

TIP: Adding Web Videos to Your Marketing Strategy (Part 1)
Jewelry retailers are gearing up for all things summer. This traditionally "slow" season doesn't have to be. Customers will flock to your store through a fun and interactive social media strategy using online video. Audio & Video Production Expert Mark David Zahn's article, "Is your Flip video camera killing your brand image?," provides video how-tos for even the most inexperienced. We've included his top advice to help you start generating excitement about your brand with web videos . . .
EDUCATION & TRAINING

What to Know When Purchasing Scrap Metals
As gold prices fluctuate, purchasing scrap gold and other metals from customers may leave you with questions. This article from Jewelers Mutual, in our online Educational Resource Library, reveals everything you need to know to protect your business when buying scrap gold . . . (Members Only)


LEGISLATION & REGULATION

Live In Las Vegas: Take Action on Issues that Affect Jewelry Business!
Want to speak out on issues that can impact your business? Visit JA's Booth at the JCK Show, where we'll have a "Live" Legislative Action Center. You can sign petitions on key issues and learn more about JA's grassroots advocacy . . . 

LEGISLATION & REGULATION

Live In Las Vegas: JA CEO Takes Part in Diamond Dialogue
The issue of conflict diamonds remains at the forefront of challenges to consumer confidence. Jewelers of America President and CEO Matthew A. Runci will take part in "Diamond Dialogue: The Challenges of a Robust Kimberley Process," a World Diamond Council panel session being held at the JCK Show on Thursday, June 2 . . .