PEARL REPORT 2021

PEARL REPORT | 9 | 2021-2022 封面故事 Jewelmer: A t the height of the Covid-19 crisis in 2020, Jewelmer’s pearl farmers faced what could only be described as their worst nightmare: Lack of access to the pearl-producing oysters that they were tasked to care for and nurture. Extreme lockdowns prevented them from being physically present at the farms hence affecting the oysters’ survival rate and impacting the company’s future production volume. The pandemic also impeded traditional business channels including export routes and trade fairs. It was a test of resilience for Philippines-based Jewelmer – a world-renowned producer of the coveted golden South Sea pearl and manufacturer of intricately designed fine pearl jewellery pieces. And the decades- old brand faced the challenge head-on. Buoyed by its spirited and innovative nature, Jewelmer sprang to action to ensure that its clients have uninterrupted access to pearl harvests. The company successfully held a series of virtual auctions, which is a first for Jewelmer. It also started offering a slew of digital services to homebound consumers through its e-commerce websites. Banking on buyers’ implacable appetite for luxurious yet sustainable items and younger customers becoming more enamoured with the golden pearl, the celebrated brand – ever resilient and progressive – remains upbeat about growth prospects going forward. Facing a pandemic Flexibility and adaptability are key to mitigating Covid- related disruptions. According to Jacques Christophe Branellec, executive vice president and deputy CEO of Jewelmer, the year 2020 also reinforced the importance of forging solid ties with clients. The company has been around for 42 years. To guarantee continued supply of South Sea pearls to buyers, Jewelmer introduced a series of online auctions, which were positively received in the trade. It also launched its Philippine e-commerce website in 2020 and subsequently unveiled a US digital platform. The company is looking to expand this service to Japan and China eventually. Through its online portals, clients can schedule virtual appointments and enter stores digitally, where they still experience Jewelmer’s unique brand of customer service. As the world learns to live in the next normal, Branellec said the brand will find more creative ways to connect with clients, partners and distributors across the globe. “The maison is committed to reinvention, ensuring that the beauty and lustre of the golden South Sea pearl is treasured around the world. Moving forward, Jewelmer will continue to pursue innovation through its ground- breaking designs and dedication to the environment,” he continued. A LEGACY OF RESILIENCE JEWELMER: 堅毅的傳承 | Bernardette Sto. Domingo 杜明高 | Golden South Sea pearl specialist Jewelmer is no stranger to change. With the onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Philippines-based international brand tapped into its innovative nature to rise above the challenge and find new ways to fuel growth. 南洋金珠專家 Jewelmer 無懼轉變，迎難而上。新冠疫情衝擊後，這個扎根菲律賓的國際品牌發揮創 新思維，積極迎接挑戰，尋找開拓業務的契機。