Digital programme gives Dundee jeweller a boost

Karen Smith launched her business in 2014 and now has stockists in Glasgow, Perth, Dundee and Angus. Knowing that online sales could help her business, Karen wanted to learn how to keep her website up-to-date and have her full range available.

The DigitalBoost training programme has been developed by Business Gateway in partnership with Scottish Enterprise and Highlands & Islands Enterprise on behalf of Digital Scotland. It is designed to help small to medium sized business improve their website presence, understand and communicate with their customers better and ultimately increase sales.

Karen, based in Dundee, set up Metallium Jewellery (formerly Karen Smith Jewellery & Metal Design) after working for jewellers and goldsmiths in Canada, Netherlands and Scotland.

Karen said: “Whilst most of my sales are still coming from the shops and galleries my range is stocked in, as well as craft and trade fairs, I know the importance of having an online shop. Previously, I couldn’t update my website and have my full collection on sale but now after receiving advice tailored for my needs via the DigitalBoost programme I can do all this.

It means my website is far more engaging and relevant as well as being a lot more user friendly. This will hopefully translate into more online orders coming through which will boost my business further."

Karen also provides jewellery making classes for people who are interested in learning more and making their own piece to take home with them. As well as this, she is currently working on commissions creating bespoke designs for customers.

With plans to eventually open her own studio, Karen is excited about the future and hopes to continue to grow her venture.

She added: “I’ve had a lot of positive feedback through Facebook and Instagram as well as from stockists so we’re definitely heading in the right direction. I’m also hoping to increase the number of classes we offer as I really enjoy teaching people about jewellery.”

Nicki Mearns, Operations Manager, Business Gateway Dundee said: “By working with our partners, we are delivering a programme of support that is helping Scottish SME’s like Karen Smith Jewellery and Metal Design enter new markets, trade internationally and enhance their digital skills for free.”