Simply Abu Dhabi XIII

8 7 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I What are your thoughts on Abu Dhabi & Dubai’s Luxury Jewellery & Watch sector? Different geographical areas do lean towards different styles to some degree. In the Middle East for example, we find that women typically prefer entire suites of Graff jewellery; necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets featuring striking diamonds and coloured gemstones that are designed to be worn together. One thing that is consistent globally is that our clients are acutely knowledgeable when it comes to purchasing fine jewellery; they have a desire and demand for the highest quality diamonds and gemstones, designed in beautiful settings that showcase the stones to their highest degree. Howmany boutiques does Graff have planned for the region (MENA, GCC & KSA)? In what areas do you see the most opportunity for your business to grow in 2014 and what are your expansion plans for Graff? We currently have three locations in the UAE, including new stores at Sowwah Square in Abu Dhabi and The Dubai Mall, which both opened last year, plus a store located within the Burj al Arab. Our store expansion programme will continue with new openings in Riyadh, Zurich and across Asia in 2014. We are also expanding other areas of the business to support our retail expansion, including production, design, manufacturing and administration. Improving our business every day is a top priority and always has been. Customer loyalty and sustainability is key. How does Graff engage with its existing clientele to maintain relations and how interactive are you in the digital world in finding new prospective clientele? As our business expands globally, we recognise the importance of technology in communicating with our clients. Our website has proven to be extremely effective in showcasing our beautiful jewels to new and existing clientele, even if they’re not able to access one of our stores. What’s the best career advice anyone has ever given you? My father has always encouraged me to follow my dreams. Who has been your inspiration in the industry? My father, Laurence Graff. If you weren't a jeweller, what would you be? I can’t imagine doing anything else. Lastly, our signature question: what do you think of the Simply Abu Dhabi Publication? Simply Abu Dhabi is an elegant and informative publication, which provides the perfect platform for us to ensure continued awareness for Graff’s fabulous jewels across the UAE. Francois Graff Photographer : Shu Tomioka

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