Retailer looking for unique, profitable Christmas gifting ideas? SilverJD has you covered

The jewellery industry is constantly evolving, with trends and innovations reshaping consumer preferences. SilverJD, a leading name in the sterling silver market, has recently introduced a stunning new collection that merges the timeless appeal of sterling silver with the brilliance of cubic zirconia. 

For retailers in the UK, this new range represents not only a visually captivating product line but also a highly profitable opportunity.

The Appeal of Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is renowned for its diamond-like appearance, offering the sparkle and allure of precious gemstones at a fraction of the cost. Its affordability, combined with its visual similarity to diamonds, makes it a popular choice for customers seeking luxurious-looking jewellery without the premium price tag. In recent years, the demand for CZ has surged, particularly among younger consumers who prioritise style and value over traditional gemstone prestige.

This shift in consumer behaviour has created a fertile ground for the introduction of CZ-incorporated jewellery collections. SilverJD has capitalised on this trend by crafting a range that pairs cubic zirconia’s dazzling charm with the durability and sophistication of sterling silver.

The Benefits of Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is a long-standing favourite in the jewellery industry due to its affordability, elegance, and versatility. It offers a sleek, polished look that complements a wide variety of gemstones, including cubic zirconia. For consumers, sterling silver pieces are the perfect combination of luxury and practicality, providing a high-end appearance at a reasonable price.

SilverJD’s new range ensures that customers can enjoy the sparkle of CZ while benefiting from the quality and durability of sterling silver. This makes the collection an attractive choice for fashion-forward shoppers, gift buyers, and individuals seeking affordable yet stylish jewellery.

Why Retailers Should Be Excited

For UK retailers, the new cubic zirconia-incorporated sterling silver range from SilverJD represents a promising business opportunity for several reasons:

Appealing Price Point: The combination of sterling silver and cubic zirconia allows retailers to offer high-quality, aesthetically pleasing jewellery at a mid-range price point. This affordability makes the collection accessible to a broad demographic, from budget-conscious shoppers to fashion enthusiasts looking for versatile accessories.

High Demand for Affordable Luxury: In the current economic climate, consumers are increasingly seeking products that offer luxury without the hefty price tag. Jewellery that features cubic zirconia meets this demand perfectly, providing the sparkle of diamonds at a fraction of the cost. This trend toward affordable luxury is expected to continue, making SilverJD’s new range a timely addition to the market.

Versatility in Design: The new collection includes a wide variety of designs, from minimalist pieces perfect for everyday wear to more elaborate styles suited for special occasions. This versatility ensures that retailers can cater to a diverse customer base, increasing the potential for higher sales.

Profit Margins: Given the relatively low production cost of cubic zirconia and sterling silver compared to traditional precious stones and metals, retailers can expect higher profit margins. With the growing popularity of CZ jewellery, retailers can mark up these pieces while still offering competitive pricing, leading to increased profitability.

Seasonal and Gift Appeal: Jewellery is a popular gift option throughout the year, especially during peak shopping seasons such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day. The new cubic zirconia sterling silver range is perfectly positioned as an ideal gift choice, further boosting sales during these key retail periods.

Maximising the Opportunity

To fully capitalise on the profitability of SilverJD’s new collection, UK retailers can adopt the following strategies:

Effective Marketing: Highlight the diamond-like brilliance of cubic zirconia and the quality of sterling silver in promotional campaigns. Social media platforms, especially Instagram and Pinterest, are ideal for showcasing the range’s sparkle through high-quality images and videos.

Customer Education: Educating customers about the benefits of CZ and sterling silver can drive interest and sales. Inform them about how cubic zirconia offers an affordable alternative to diamonds, without compromising on beauty or style.

Loyalty and Bundling Offers: To encourage repeat purchases, retailers can offer loyalty programmes or bundle pieces together at a discounted rate, incentivising customers to buy multiple items from the collection.

Conclusion

SilverJD’s new cubic zirconia-incorporated sterling silver jewellery range presents an exciting and profitable opportunity for UK retailers. With its combination of affordability, luxury, and high demand for CZ jewellery, this collection is well-positioned to drive sales and boost profit margins. By effectively marketing the range and tapping into the growing trend for affordable yet stylish jewellery, retailers can maximise their revenue potential and capture a significant share of the UK jewellery market.

https://www.silverjd.co.uk

Savernake Knives Personalised Christmas Gifts: British, Bold & Beautifully Crafted for You and Your Loved Ones

As the festive season draws near, thoughts of finding the perfect gift for our loved ones become ever more pressing. 

This year, instead of the typical gift options, why not surprise them with something truly exceptional? 

Savernake Knives, a proudly British brand, offers just the right blend of craftsmanship, utility, and personalisation to make Christmas gifting not just thoughtful but truly memorable.

A Heritage of British Craftsmanship

Founded in the heart of Wiltshire, Savernake Knives embodies centuries of British craftsmanship. With a dedication to creating world-class kitchen knives, each blade is handmade with precision and care, ensuring it not only performs flawlessly but is a joy to use. When you choose a Savernake knife, you are choosing a piece of British heritage, made by a team of skilled artisans who take pride in every blade they produce.

Bold Design Meets Functionality

The team at Savernake doesn’t just make knives that look good – they make knives that work. Blades are crafted using the highest quality materials, ensuring sharpness, durability, and balance. Whether your gift recipient is a professional chef or a passionate home cook, they’ll appreciate the effortless control and comfort a Savernake knife offers. Each knife is designed to be both bold in its appearance and exceptional in its performance.

The modern, sleek designs of Savernake knives also set them apart. Their aesthetic appeal goes hand in hand with their practical application, making them the perfect addition to any kitchen, from contemporary to classic. This attention to both form and function is what makes a Savernake knife not just a tool but a statement piece.

Personalised Gifts for Christmas

One of the most unique and exciting features of Savernake Knives is the ability to personalise each blade. This Christmas, why not add an extra touch of thoughtfulness to your gift by having a name, message, or special date engraved onto the blade? Whether it’s “Dad’s Best Carving Knife” or “Christmas 2024”, this personalisation turns a beautiful gift into a cherished keepsake. Savernake’s bespoke options ensure that each knife is as individual as the person receiving it.

Personalised knives make an excellent gift for all sorts of people – from the budding cook to the seasoned chef. They also offer a fantastic opportunity to commemorate special moments, such as a family Christmas, an engagement, or a milestone birthday.

Beautifully Packaged for the Perfect Presentation

Savernake Knives come presented in elegant packaging, designed to highlight the beauty of the knife within. Whether you choose a single knife or opt for a complete set, your gift will arrive ready to wow on Christmas morning. The packaging is just the beginning of a unique and memorable gifting experience.

A Thoughtful, Sustainable Choice

At a time when many of us are looking to make more eco-conscious choices, Savernake Knives stand out. Their production process is committed to sustainability, with each knife made to last a lifetime, reducing the need for replacement. Instead of a disposable, mass-produced item, a Savernake knife is a sustainable gift that will be cherished for years to come.

Why Choose Savernake Knives for Christmas?

Christmas is a time to celebrate those we love, and what better way to show someone you care than with a personalised gift that reflects both quality and thoughtfulness? With a Savernake knife, you’re giving more than just a kitchen tool – you’re giving a piece of British craftsmanship, personalised for your loved one, and designed to last a lifetime.

For a gift that’s British, bold, and beautifully crafted, Savernake Knives is the perfect choice this Christmas.

This festive season, elevate your gifting game with something unique, meaningful, and unforgettable. Explore the collection at Savernake Knives and make this Christmas one they’ll always remember.

https://www.savernakeknives.co.uk

The Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is a sweet Christmas treat for all

Bonne Maman has released their new enchanting Advent Calendar which contains 23 different mini jars of conserves - especially prepared for the Christmas season.

This year every calendar purchased from the Bonne Maman website will receive their most delicious award winning Hazelnut Chocolate Spread, in a beautifully embellished jar. 

And what's more: There is also a little surprise gift on Christmas Eve. 

Where can you make purchase of this veritable family Christmas tradition? Either online from Bonne Maman themselves at www.bonnemaman.co.uk at £28.00 rrp.

It will also be available from selected, specialist retailers such as Waitrose & Partners stores, Selfridges and Fenwicks.

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Non-Alcoholic Equivalents for Spirit-Based Drinks: Christmas Cocktail Making at Home

As the festive season approaches, Christmas parties and gatherings are at the forefront of our minds. While traditional Christmas cocktails often feature spirits like gin, rum, and whisky, more people are opting for non-alcoholic alternatives.

 Whether it's for health reasons, personal preference, or simply wanting to enjoy a flavourful drink without the alcohol, there’s no need to miss out on the fun. Here’s a guide to making non-alcoholic versions of your favourite spirit-based Christmas cocktails at home.

1. Non-Alcoholic Gin Alternatives

Gin is often at the heart of many festive cocktails, such as the classic Gin & Tonic or the more adventurous Christmas Punch. Thankfully, non-alcoholic gin alternatives are readily available in many supermarkets and online retailers.

What to try:

Seedlip Garden 108 is an excellent alcohol-free gin alternative with herbal notes that complement tonic or soda water.

Ceder’s Crisp offers a refreshing blend of juniper, citrus, and cucumber, perfect for light, festive cocktails.

Recipe idea:

Non-Alcoholic Christmas Gin Punch

50ml Seedlip Garden 108

50ml cranberry juice

A squeeze of lime

Top with tonic water

Garnish with fresh rosemary and a few frozen cranberries

This refreshing and festive cocktail delivers all the botanical flavours of a gin punch without the alcohol.

2. Rum Substitutes

Rum-based drinks like the Mojito or Eggnog often find their way into Christmas celebrations. For those looking for non-alcoholic rum substitutes, there are some fantastic options available.

What to try:

Lyre’s Dark Cane Spirit provides a great alternative to dark rum, with notes of caramel, molasses, and spice.

RumISH is another non-alcoholic option that replicates the sweet and spicy elements of rum, making it ideal for classic festive drinks.

Recipe idea:

Non-Alcoholic Spiced Eggnog

50ml Lyre’s Dark Cane Spirit

200ml almond or oat milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

A pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon

A dollop of whipped cream to top

This rich and creamy alternative to traditional Eggnog brings all the warmth and comfort of the season without the booze.

3. Non-Alcoholic Whisky Options

Whisky is synonymous with the colder months, and it’s a star ingredient in many Christmas cocktails, like the Old Fashioned or Whisky Sour. Fortunately, there are non-alcoholic alternatives that allow you to enjoy the depth and complexity of whisky without the alcohol.

What to try:

Lyre’s American Malt offers a solid non-alcoholic substitute, with flavours of oak, vanilla, and caramel, perfect for whisky-based cocktails.

Spirit of Bourbon by Free Spirits is another great option with a similar profile to bourbon, making it suitable for Christmas classics.

Recipe idea:

Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned

50ml Lyre’s American Malt

1 tsp brown sugar

A few dashes of Angostura bitters (you can find non-alcoholic bitters too!)

A splash of water

Garnish with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry

This non-alcoholic take on the Old Fashioned is just as rich and smooth as the original, providing a warming and festive drink.

4. Tequila Alternatives for Festive Margaritas

Tequila-based drinks may not be the first thing that comes to mind for Christmas, but with their bright and citrusy flavours, they can provide a refreshing contrast to the heavier winter fare.

What to try:

Lyre’s Agave Blanco Spirit is a non-alcoholic alternative that mimics the agave-based spirit, making it perfect for margaritas and Palomas.

Mockingbird Spirit is another non-alcoholic option with a tequila-inspired taste profile, ideal for festive twists on classic cocktails.

Recipe idea:

Non-Alcoholic Festive Margarita

50ml Lyre’s Agave Blanco Spirit

25ml lime juice

25ml cranberry juice

10ml agave syrup

Salt rim for garnish

This festive twist on the classic margarita combines the zesty lime and refreshing agave flavours, perfect for adding a bit of sparkle to your Christmas celebrations.

5. Vodka Substitutes for Christmas Cocktails

Vodka is a versatile spirit that appears in many festive cocktails, from the classic Moscow Mule to the Christmas Cosmo. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic vodka alternative, you’ll find some excellent options to recreate these drinks.

What to try:

Stryyk Not Vodka is a popular non-alcoholic vodka substitute that blends seamlessly into your favourite cocktails.

CleanCo Clean V is another fantastic alcohol-free vodka alternative, with a smooth and neutral flavour profile.

Recipe idea:

Non-Alcoholic Christmas Cosmo

50ml Stryyk Not Vodka

25ml cranberry juice

10ml fresh lime juice

10ml orange juice

Garnish with an orange twist

This non-alcoholic Cosmo retains all the tart, citrusy flavours of the original while keeping things alcohol-free.

Conclusion

Christmas is a time for celebration, and with so many great non-alcoholic alternatives to spirits, you don’t need to miss out on the festive fun. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these alcohol-free cocktails are sure to bring some sparkle to your Christmas season. Cheers to a merry and mindful holiday!

A Piece of Delicious Gluten Free Flapjack Every Day with Flapjackery's Advent Calendar Box

We are launching the That's Christmas Advent Calendar series of features with the wonderful news that Flapjackery is launching its 2024 flapjack advent calendar box. To learn more, please read on!

Flapjackery's Gluten-Free Advent Calendar Box (£65) promises a daily December delight with its mouth-watering pieces of flapjack, perfect for counting down to Christmas. (Actually, as a diagnosed coeliac my wife is always looking for gluten-free treats and foods.)

Inside, you'll find twenty-four scrummy and delicious individually wrapped half-pieces of gluten-free flapjacks in an irresistible array of flavours. 

Expect festive favourites such as Mince Pie, Florentine, Orange and Cranberry, and even Milk Chocolate Flapjack topped with holly piped in white chocolate.

Handmade in Devon, right on the very edge of Dartmoor, these flapjacks are crafted using the finest of  oats and locally-sourced West Country ingredients such as 100% real real butter and Fairtrade brown sugar. It's a delicious daily treat guaranteed to keep you going through the chilly December days.

Available for delivery between 1st November and 1st December (if no date is specified, they'll be sent out from 15th November onwards), these tasty delights arrive in recyclable packaging and stay fresh for weeks. Oh, and did we mention they're all gluten-free?

Visit Flapjackery.co.uk to order your's and add a bit of joy to your December!

The Advent calendar Box contains the following 24 half pieces 

Rudolph Fudge Flapjack

Caramel Latte Flapjack

Creamy Hazelnut Chocolate Flapjack

Orange and Cranberry Flapjack

Ginger & Dark Chocolate Flapjack

Millionaires Flapjack piped with a tree in white chocolate

Mince Pie Flapjack

Dark Chocolate and Salted Caramel Flapjack

Peanut Butter Fudge Flapjack

Burnt Caramel and Sea Salt Flapjack

Creamy Fudge Flapjack

Traditional Flapjack

Raspberry Millionaires Flapjack

Salted Caramel Caramel Fudge Flapjack

Christmas Rocky Road Flapjack

Billionaires Flapjack

Milk Chocolate Flapjackery piped with holly in white chocolate

Mint Chocolate Flapjack

Treacle Flapjack

Florentine Flapjack

Milk Chocolate Orange Flapjack

Clotted Cream Fudge Flapjack

Chocolate Fudge Flapjack

Honeycomb Rocky Road Flapjack

FACTFILE:-

Who'd have thought an empire would be created out of a love for the humble flapjack? But that's exactly what Carol Myott and her former business partner Sally Jenkin  built, despite both being semi-retired when they started their baking business.

From their kitchens in rural west Devon way back in 2015 (2025 is going to be a BIG year, trust us on that!) right on the foothills of Dartmoor, they began baking cakes for their local farmers' market. It was the flapjacks that flew off the table,it was all very basic back then, so they focused on this, introducing some eclectic and mouth-watering flavours.

They decided to grow bigger and attended shows like the BBC Good Food Show, and sold out. That's when they knew a collective love of flapjacks wasn't just a whim, people loved these gluten free chunks of oat-filled treats, with flavours like Burnt Caramel and Sea Salt, Honeycomb Rocky Road, and Summer Fruits Crumble to whet the appetite.

Fast forward to 2024, and there are now 12 shops dotted about the Westcountry, mostly in astonishingly stunning seaside towns, with their original shop in Tavistock, which opened back in 2019, the flag bearer for all things Flapjackery. Amazingly, every single flapjack is handmade at their Tavistock bakery! Wow! How cool is that?!

With Sally stepping back, the business is led by Carol and continues to expand nationally. The key ingredients of the flapjacks remain the same, and Carol has some tips on how to make the perfect flapjacks: "Weigh the golden syrup! Lots of recipes measure by tablespoon, but this is very inaccurate and too much syrup can result in a hard finish. People's instinct is to add a bit more to make it soft and gooey, but this has the opposite effect. We recommend the same weight of sugar to golden syrup, which, together, should equal the weight of butter—so if the recipe says 300g of butter, we'd use 150g of sugar and 150g of golden syrup."

That's Christmas and sister site That's Food and Drink (run by a delightfully dotty husband and wife team) have been keenly watching and promoting Flapjackery since we were first introduced to them by our friends at Raw Food and Drink PR.

Choosing Stilton for Christmas: A Quintessential British Tradition

When it comes to festive food traditions in the UK, Stilton cheese holds a special place at the Christmas table. This iconic blue cheese, with its rich history and distinct flavours, is a must-have for many during the holiday season.

Whether it’s served on a cheese board after Christmas dinner or enjoyed with a glass of port by the fire, Stilton adds an unmistakable touch of luxury and tradition to Christmas celebrations.

But how do you choose the perfect Stilton for your festive feast? Here are some tips to help you pick the finest blue cheese for Christmas this year.

The History of Stilton

First, a little background: Stilton is one of only a handful of British cheeses with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, meaning it can only be made in certain counties—Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire. It dates back to the 18th century, and its popularity has endured, making it a symbol of British cheesemaking.

1. Blue or White?

Stilton is available in two varieties: blue and white. While the blue version is more commonly associated with Christmas, with its beautiful blue veins and creamy texture, white Stilton is also a delicious alternative, especially if you're not keen on the tang of blue cheeses. White Stilton is milder, crumbly, and often paired with fruits like cranberries or apricots, which can add a festive twist to your cheese selection.

2. Check the Age

When choosing Stilton for Christmas, it's important to consider its age. A younger Stilton will be creamier and milder in flavour, making it an ideal choice if you prefer a less intense blue cheese. However, if you're a true blue cheese lover, go for a more mature Stilton, which will have a stronger, more complex flavour and a crumbly texture.

3. Look for a Trusted Producer

Stilton is made by only a few dairies, and all producers adhere to strict standards, but each one has its own subtle differences. Producers like Colston Bassett, Cropwell Bishop, and Long Clawson are renowned for their high-quality Stilton. Trying cheeses from different dairies is a great way to explore the unique characteristics of each, but any Stilton bearing the PDO mark is guaranteed to be of excellent quality.

4. Consider Pairings

One of the joys of Stilton at Christmas is how well it pairs with other festive treats. Traditionally, Stilton is served with a glass of port, a rich and sweet fortified wine that complements the cheese’s sharp, salty flavour. If port isn’t to your taste, consider pairing it with a dessert wine, such as Sauternes, or even a full-bodied red like a Bordeaux. For non-alcoholic options, spiced apple juice or a pear cordial can be excellent companions.

In terms of food, Stilton shines when paired with fruits like figs, pears, or apples. It also works beautifully with chutneys, especially ones with a bit of sweetness and spice. Try serving your Stilton with a fig chutney, or opt for the classic combination of Stilton and quince paste.

5. Storage Tips

Once you've chosen your perfect Stilton, it’s important to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh throughout the festive period. Stilton should be kept in the fridge, wrapped in wax paper or foil, and stored in an airtight container. This will help it retain its moisture while preventing other foods in the fridge from absorbing its distinctive aroma.

Before serving, take your Stilton out of the fridge about an hour ahead of time to allow it to come to room temperature. This will enhance its flavours and make it easier to cut and spread.

A Christmas Classic

Whether you're a long-time Stilton fan or introducing it to your Christmas table for the first time, this iconic cheese adds a truly British touch to your festive celebrations. Its versatility, bold flavours, and rich history make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their Christmas cheese board.

As you gather with family and friends, make sure there's a place for Stilton alongside the mince pies and Christmas pudding. After all, it’s not quite Christmas without it!

However, my wife states, quite firmly, that a good Stilton is not just for Christmas! And I cannot argue with her!