Nominations open for NAJ Awards 2026 – and anyone can enter

The National Association of Jewellers is inviting businesses and individuals from across the UK trade to be recognised for excellence in creativity, leadership and innovation

By Rachael Taylor

The search is on for the people, businesses and ideas shaping the future of the UK jewellery industry, with nominations now officially open for the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) Awards 2026 .


Returning to the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Birmingham on 8th October, the annual awards recognise excellence across retail, manufacturing, design and the wider trade.


This year's awards are organised around three themes: Great Ideas, Great People and Great Businesses. See below for a full list.

Ben Massey, chief executive of the National Association of Jewellers, said the awards continue to reflect the strength and ambition of the industry: ”The NAJ Awards continue to showcase the very best of our industry, from creativity and craftsmanship to service and leadership. Each year, the quality of nominations grows stronger, reflecting a trade that is passionate, resilient and forward-looking.

"We are incredibly proud to provide a platform that celebrates these achievements and brings the community together. I would encourage businesses and individuals of all sizes to get involved, share their stories, and be part of what promises to be another outstanding celebration."

Nominations are open until 1st August 2026, and are free for NAJ members, with non-members also eligible to enter. You can find out more and make your entry here.

National Association of Jewellers Awards 2026: Full list of awards categories

GREAT IDEAS

  • Collection of the Year

  • Community Engagement of the Year

  • ESG Initiative of the Year (sponsored by SGS)

  • Digital Engagement of the Year (sponsored by Squash Media Group)

  • Store Design of the Year


GREAT PEOPLE

  • Customer Champion of the Year (sponsored by Cooksongold)

  • Designer of the Year (sponsored by National Business Register)

  • Rising Star of the Year (sponsored by British Academy of Jewellery)

  • Unsung Hero of the Year (sponsored by JQV Gemstones)

  • Workshop Professional of the Year (sponsored by At The Bench)


GREAT BUSINESSES

  • Bespoke Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Bespoke Quarter)

  • Jewellery Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Ti Sento)

  • Product Supplier of the Year (sponsored by The Jewellery Show)

  • Service Supplier of the Year

  • Team of the Year (sponsored by TH March)

Images: All images from the NAJ Awards 2025 ceremony. (NAJ)

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