The Liverpool-based business was recognised for creating an inclusive and supportive working environment where women are represented across all levels, from creative studios to leadership roles.

The ranking is based on anonymous employee feedback and considers areas such as trust in leadership, professional development, and workplace culture. 

Great Place to Work UK described the list as celebrating organisations where women can “flourish”.

Cynthia Cartwright, commercial director, who was recently awarded a Fellowship at the Merseyside Women of the Year Awards, said: “To be named one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for Women in the same year I received my MWOTY Fellowship is incredibly humbling. It validates our continuous investment in empowering our team, nurturing talent, and creating space for every woman to thrive at Wongs.”

Peter Wong, director at Wongs, added: “Creating a culture where everyone – and especially women – feel seen, heard, and supported has always been a priority for us.”

The news comes as the company plans to expand its footprint with a new store in Manchester later in 2025.

The awards, hosted by County Brides, recognise “outstanding” wedding suppliers across the region. 

This year, more than 17,500 verified votes were cast and over 3,000 businesses nominated.

Cynthia Cartwright, commercial director at Wongs Jewellers, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to receive this award. What makes it so special is that it comes from the couples we’ve had the joy of working with during one of the most meaningful chapters of their lives.

“As we look ahead to the opening of our new Manchester store later this year, this recognition is a wonderful reflection of the passion and care our team brings to every customer experience.”

Peter Wong, managing director, added: “It’s such a privilege to be recognised in this way. At Wongs, everything we do is rooted in craftsmanship, trust, and a deeply personal approach. Being voted best jeweller by the couples we serve means the world to us.”

The new collection includes custom-fit bracelets, anklets, and belly chains that are welded directly onto the wearer.

The launch was celebrated with an exclusive Influencer Day with guests including British Olympic gymnast Beth Tweddle.

Wongs also partnered with local radio personality Leanne Campbell to kick off a special giveaway campaign.

Katie Hughes, marketing executive, said: ’The branding of Welded by Wongs is as bold and modern as the pieces themselves – sleek, minimal, and unmissably cool, with design elements that reflect the permanence and personal nature of each jewellery piece. Every touchpoint, from the signature welding spark logo to the bold in store display, has been crafted to elevate the customer journey.”

Cynthia Cartwright, commercial director at Wongs Jewellers, added: “We wanted to create something that felt timeless but totally now. Welded by Wongs is about celebrating individuality, stories, and style – pieces that stay with you, wherever life takes you.”

The prestigious recognition is reserved for companies that go “above and beyond” in creating an “exceptional” workplace culture, where employees feel appreciated, supported, and motivated to do their best.

The award is based on candid feedback from employees, with a strong focus on trust, collaboration, and overall job satisfaction.

According to Wongs, over the past year, the company has focused on creating a “positive, inclusive environment where employees can grow, learn, and thrive, ensuring they are not just a part of the business, but an integral part of its success”.

Peter Wong, managing director of Wongs Jewellers Liverpool, said: “We couldn’t be happier to receive the Great Place to Work award for the second year in a row! This accolade is a direct reflection of the incredible team we have here at Wongs. When you invest in your people, great things happen – and that’s what this award represents.”

Cynthia Cartwright, commercial director, added: “Being recognised as a Great Place to Work means that we are not only creating a productive and positive environment but also one where our people feel valued and empowered. This award motivates us to continue enhancing our workplace, ensuring that everyone who works here feels supported, appreciated, and part of the Wongs family.”

During their annual general meetings which took place on 6 June 2024, at the Tower of London, professionals representing all the federated trade associations, including The Giftware Association, the Surface Engineering Association, the British Travelgoods and Accessories Association and the Jewellery Distributors Association attended for the AGM, in addition to a contingent from the NAJ that hosted its own AGM at the same time. 

Tom Jones has been appointed as BATF’s new chief executive officer, effective immediately. Jones previously held a similar position at the Aluminium Federation, where he served for more than six years, in addition to a board director role at the UK Metals Council. 

Meanwhile, outgoing BATF president Henrik Skouby formally handed over duties to Gert Schyberg, the founder and managing director of Sebnini Trading Ltd. 

As the new BATF president, Schyberg will draw upon 15 years of experience on the Giftware Association’s National Committee and professional expertise in finance, procurement manufacturing, strategy and management to uplift the federation and ensure its continued success in tumultuous times. 

Schyberg will also work alongside Henrik in his new role as deputy president until 2026.

To close proceedings, the BATF named three additions to its board of directors, including National Association of Jewellers representatives Harriet Kelsall and Heather Callaway, who have both served as chair of the association in previous years, and John Taylor, managing director of Surface Engineering Association (SEA) member business, Schloetter Co Ltd. 

During the NAJ AGM, President Gary Wroe formally handed the reins of chair to Adam Jacobs, who had previously served as vice chair of the Association since 2022. 

He now officially takes over responsibilities from outgoing chair Callaway. As the joint-owner of Reading-based independent family business, Jacobs the Jewellers, Adam Jacobs has been an NAJ volunteer since 2016, initially stepping in to introduce a marketing and promotions sub-group before being invited to join the National Committee in 2020. 

He also serves as chair of R.E.D.A., Reading’s Economy + Destination Agency, and is a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths.

Additionally, The NAJ also announced new additions to its National Committee at the event, including Alexia Taylor, a passionate advocate for the NAJ’s Institute of Registered Valuers and a director at Walsh Bros. Jewellers in Tunbridge Wells, and Peter Wong, managing director at Wongs Jewellers in Liverpool and a member of the NAJ’s JET Business Network. 

Jones said: “This is a great time to be joining the BATF as CEO. The AGM was a great opportunity to network with members and meet representatives of each of the federated trade associations, who I look forward to working closely with in the future. My goal now is to dive into Federation business and see what can be done to strengthen its remit and future-proof our activities.” 

Speaking on the milestone year, Gay Penfold said: “This is an exciting time for The Benevolent Society as we celebrate 100 years and thousands of beneficiaries who have navigated hard times with the support of their friends and colleagues in this great trade. This year’s BATF AGM and dinner at the Tower of London was a wonderful occasion and a perfect opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new connections.”

​​Its ranking was revealed at the UK’s Best Workplaces™ Awards at Grosvenor House in London, which are considered the ‘gold standard’ of employer awards. Independently assessed through a rigorous and unique process, it said those on the list have proved they have “created a great workplace culture built on trust, supported by innovative people management practices”.

To compile the UK’s Best Workplaces™ List, Great Place To Work analysed confidential employee survey feedback on trust and reaching their full human potential, as well as employees’ experiences of innovation, company values, and leadership effectiveness across departments and seniority levels. They then used these data insights to benchmark the effectiveness of companies’ employee value propositions against the culture their employees actually experience. Only those businesses who achieve the highest scores after evaluation receive Best Workplaces status.

The group stated that according to an anonymous employee feedback, overall its team was commended for its dedication to ongoing learning, individual growth, and the culture of knowledge exchange across its business.

A quote from the Wongs Jewellers Trust Index Survey, read: “Wongs is a fantastic employer, always thinking about the team. We are all treated well and feel part of the family business. We are all encouraged to be ourselves, let our personalities shine and contribute to the business. Wongs really look after the staff and their needs.”

Cynthia Cartwright, commercial director, said: “What a moment – to be named one of the best small businesses in the UK – wow – this acknowledgment reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive culture that empowers our employees to thrive both personally and professionally.”

The jewellery retailer said that the accolade reflects Wongs Jewellers’ dedication to its employees’ well-being and professional growth.

The Great Place to Work certification is a result of a comprehensive evaluation, considering employee feedback and workplace practices.

Wongs Jewellers has demonstrated excellence in creating an environment that promotes “trust, collaboration, and innovation”.

100% of the Wongs team stated that ‘This is a Great Place to Work’ compared with the national average of a typical UK based company which is 54%.

Cynthia Cartwright, commercial director at Wongs Jewellers, said: “We are delighted to be recognised as a Great Place to Work. At Wongs Jewellers, we believe in creating a workplace where our team members feel valued, supported, and inspired. This acknowledgment reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive culture that empowers our employees to thrive both personally and professionally.”

Peter Wong, managing director of Wongs Jewellers, added: “Receiving the Great Place to Work certification is a proud moment for our entire team. It underscores our dedication to providing an environment where talent is nurtured and innovation is embraced. Our success is a result of the collective efforts of our exceptional staff, whose dedication and passion contribute to the success of Wongs Jewellers.”

Wongs will have circus-themed decorations in store, in-store activities and a new window display.

This new display follows the jeweller’s Summer of Love campaign to celebrate Eurovision coming to Liverpool.

As part of this Wongs installed a karaoke machine and disco ball in its store.

Cynthia Cartwright, commercial director, said: “We believe the ‘Ringmasters’ campaign will create lasting memories and provide a touch of magic to our customers’ Christmas celebrations. This display is my favourite to date – keep your eyes peeled for some exciting Christmas events and surprises in store this year!”

Peter Wong, managing director, added: “As a business, it’s important we provide the best experience for our customers and our wider community. The Ringmasters campaign brings a fun and festive vision to our business for everyone to enjoy.”

Wongs Jewellers was founded in 1979 by Brian and Susan Wong and has been at the heart of the Liverpool community since.

Cynthia Aldridge, business manager of Wong, said: “Your support is very much appreciated, and we’ve had lots of happy attendees with their gifts.”

Peter Wong, managing director, shared a video on Facebook saying he wanted to make a stand about workers deserving time with their families. He said in previous years his decision to keep the store open was due to an expectation that retailers should open almost every day of the year.

In the online video he said: “The hot topic of debate at the moment, and one I have close to my heart, is whether businesses should open or not on Boxing Day. In previous years my decision to open was due to the mounting pressure placed on retailers to open for almost 365 days a year.

“However, as a family man I understand the value of spending time with those you love at this most precious time of the year, therefore I have decided to keep the store closed this Boxing Day, and by doing so make clear on which side of the debate I stand, and allow my fantastic hardworking team the time they deserve with sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, parents and grandparents.”

Chelsea Jefferson, Wongs’ deputy manager, told the Liverpool Echo she was moved to tears at the announcement as she could now take her baby to spend Christmas with family in Yorkshire.

She said: “This is the first time where my daughter, who is 17 months old, will be able to open her gifts properly. My family are in Yorkshire, so I wasn’t going to be able to go back as I work Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.

“I thought ‘oh dear’ at first when my boss got us together, but he said he was going to make a stance on it – I cried. He didn’t have to.”

The news comes after a petition calling for all retail outlets to close for Boxing Day, gained more than 140,000 signatures. However, the calls were shunned in a debate by MPs who said it was “not necessary” for shops to shut on 26 December.