EDB implements capacity building programme for SMES in jewellery sector

The SME jewellery manufacturers play an important role in Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry.

However, their contribution to exports is minimal due to a number of reasons. The two major factors which hinder the progress of the SMES are the lack of awareness on the benefits of using design as a differentiator in the international market and lack of designers who are capable of producing exquisite designs to attract the high end segment in the international market.

Considering the importance of using design as a differentiator in the international market to increase export earnings and developing products, design capabilities of the SME jewellery manufactures to be in par with the international market, EDB has implemented several product and design development programmes.

Although the SME jewellery manufacturers are talented and creative, they need to be guided appropriately to use their capabilities to cater to the rapidly changing market needs. They have to be educated on the importance of conceptualising and turning their concept to designs that attract the consumers in the international market. SMES also need to be provided with knowledge on the latest technology on jewellery manufacturing and the demands of new markets.

In order to enhance the capabilities of the SME jewellery manufacturing companies, EDB launched an Integrated Design/product and Market Development programme in 2019 for a selected group of 10 SME jewellery manufactures for a period of three years.

The main objectives of this programme is to upgrade design and manufacturing capabilities of selected SME entrepreneurs, upgrade and introduce new techniques/ technology and to enhance the awareness on latest marketing strategies used internationally.

The programme commenced on March 7, 2019, by obtaining the service of international and local experts which consists of three phases namely Design Development Phase, Product Development Phase(manufacturing techniques/ packaging and display) and Market Development Phase.

Design Development Phase

During the Design Development Phase, three workshops were conducted and design experts mentored each participant individually to adopt and improve their existing designs and assisted to develop new designs.

During the practical sessions, participants were trained to improve their inspirational drawing, technical drawing, rendering skills and conceptual thinking together with an inspirational visits to National Museum and Urban Island showroom. Participants were given the opportunity to develop sketches, mood boards and a concept for their jewellery collection to be presented at the upcoming Facets International Gem and Jewellery Show 2019.

Product Development Phase

Two workshops were conducted covering the areas of metal crafting and enamelling at a fully-fledged jewellery workshop of the Gem and Jewellery Research and Training Institute (GJRTI) at Kaduwela.

The participants were given practical sessions on metal crafting, enameling and finishing techniques which are crucial elements in catering to the international markets.

In addition,a one day workshop on branding and packaging was also held in order to adapt new and creative packagingand provided with know-how to create own brand, various packaging techniques. The participants were individually reviewed and assisted to developtheir own brand for each participant for their newly developed collections.

Market Development Phase

The Market Development Phase will continue for three years and at the initial stage the selected participants will be given the opportunity to display their newly created jewellery collection at the EDB Pavilion at Facets International Gem and Jewellery Show 2019.

The EDB will explore the possibility of providing international market exposure for this group and organise participation at local and overseas trade events based on their performance during the programme.

In addition, providing online trading facilities through EDB web portal for them to promote and sell their products online will also be facilitated.