Wakefields leaves CMJ to join Houlden group

Following 28 years as a member of The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ), Wakefields Jewellers has announced it is leave the CMJ and join the Houlden buying group.

Dominic and Melanie Wakefield, managing directors of the jewellers said they felt the “networking and support” that Wakefields has had throughout its time with the group has “contributed to the store’s development, leading to its evolution as the business that it is today”.

Speaking out on the decision, Melanie Wakefield said: “We both feel that the friends we’ve made on our journey with the CMJ will transcend our decision to leave. The support we’ve received over the years has been truly invaluable, and we will always stay in touch.”

Dominic Wakefield who was financial director on the board of the CMJ from 2005 – 2013, said: “The last couple of years have seen a shift in the business. With a new focus on bridal, fine jewellery and watches, we’ve reduced our silver brand offering.

“We’ve found ourselves in a position where our brand portfolio has aligned with the Houlden buying group, and believe that for us personally as a business, joining Houlden will present us with new networking opportunities that will continue to allow us to forge our path in our next chapter.”

Houlden chief executive, Helen Haddow, added: “We are delighted to welcome Wakefields as part of the Houlden Advantage. They are a perfect extension to our existing premium membership with over 100 years’ experience on the high street.

“We are looking forward to showing them the benefits of being part of the Houlden community and the opportunities that we can expose them to in the industry.”