Sweet victory for Winton jeweller
Country Jewel has been trading in Winton since 2002, but perhaps their sweetest victory came recently when the store was crowned Nationwide Jewellers NZ Member of the Year.
Kerry Phillips operates and directs this family-owned business in Great North Road, Winton.
This is the first time that Country Jewel has won the coveted award from a field of 75 jewellery and watch stores across New Zealand who are all part of the Nationwide Jewellers Group.
Nationwide represents almost 500 independent jewellery stores across Australia and New Zealand, helping stores like Country Jewel compete with the city jewellers and the jewellery chain stores.
Kerry, husband John and their son Shane travelled to Sydney for the star-studded event, which was part of the International Jewellery Fair conducted at the new International Convention Centre in Darling Harbour, Sydney.
Kerry and John accepted the award in front of 230 industry peers at the Nationwide Jewellers awards dinner.
‘‘Our business has been with Nationwide since 2003, so we were incredibly pleased to receive Member of the Year,’’ says Kerry.
Nationwide Managing Director, Colin Pocklington says Country Jewel was chosen because of their remarkable growth record, their tireless campaign to always improve their business, their extensive range of quality jewellery and watches, and their impeccable repair service.
‘‘Country Jewel is typical of a large number of our members, who are taking on the big jewellery store chains and beating them in price and service,’’ he says.
Kerry says when asked to explain the reason for their success:
‘‘Our business wouldn’t exist without our fabulous clients who over the years have shown such loyalty.
‘‘Now we are seeing the next generation coming through who are also purchasing from us with confidence and trust, it’s such a privilege to be able to continue this on.
‘‘Our point of difference is stocking pieces that are slightly different and unique, and we always strive to find exactly what our clients are looking for.
‘‘A huge thank you has to go to the team at Country Jewel who are dedicated, loyal and hardworking.
‘‘The bond we all share, creates a wonderful ‘family’ atmosphere in-store, which is warm, inviting and reassuring to our clients.’’
‘‘A huge thank you has to go to the team at Country Jewel who are dedicated, loyal and hardworking.’’ — Country Jewel director Kerry Phillips.