BVSU General Meeting 2026

Industry discusses opportunities in turbulent times

The Federal Association of Jewelry, Watches, Silverware, and Related Industries (BVSU) held its regular general meeting for 2026 in Pforzheim. More than 50 members accepted the invitation from BVSU President Uwe Staib to gather in the Panorama Hall of Sparkasse Pforzheim Calw to discuss the current situation in the industry and its prospects.

A challenging year for the industry

In his activity report, CEO Guido Grohmann looked back on a challenging year for the German jewelry, watch, and precious metals industry in 2025. Against the backdrop of a difficult economic situation overall, the association supported its member companies in particular with issues relating to collective bargaining policy, regulatory requirements, and international trade.

Key topics included collective bargaining in the precious metals industry, questions regarding export duties, the implementation of international sanctions, and aspects of consumer protection, labeling, and sustainability communication within the industry. At the same time, the association continued to be heavily involved in international trade fairs and national and international industry networks.

There was also a special focus on promoting young talent in the industry. With the newly founded “BVSU Future Workshop,” the association aims to attract more young talent to the jewelry and watch industry and retain them in the industry in the long term.

Exchange on changing markets

The focus of the meeting was a presentation by Frank Michael Müller entitled “The world and the jewelry market in transition: Opportunities in turbulent times,“ in which he analyzed current developments in the international market environment. Among other things, he discussed geopolitical uncertainties, economic changes, and their impact on the jewelry industry.

The discussions made it clear that the industry continues to operate in a challenging environment. At the same time, despite the challenges, many companies also see new opportunities, for example in international markets, innovations in design, and stronger positioning of high-quality products.