Trade Bodies Join Cartier-Kering Program

RAPAPORT... Two trade organizations have become affiliate members of the Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 (WJI), a sustainability program launched by luxury brands.The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) and France's Union Fran??aise de la Bijouterie, Joaillerie, Orf??vrerie, des Pierres et des Perles (UFBJOP) have also entered into a strategic collaboration with the WJI, the group announced Friday. This will involve promoting its mission and vision to their members and participating in its governance.Cartier and Kering established the WJI in October 2021 with the goal of "building climate resilience, preserving resources, and fostering inclusiveness." Iris Van der Veken joined as its executive director and secretary general in July this year after leaving the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). At the time, she said the WJI was keen to forge alliances with trade bodies."Transformational partnerships are key to [success]," Van der Veken said last week. "We are currently in a consultation phase to shape the governance structure and we look forward to building a strong foundation to make this multi-stakeholder action platform successful."Image (left to right): Iris Van der Veken; Bernadette Pinet Cuoq, executive president of UFBJOP; Cyrille Vigneron, president and CEO of Cartier and cochair of WJI; and CIBJO president Gaetano Cavalieri. (WJI)