AFTER THE BOOM:Business is quieter for Keanes Jewellers, but people will always want to buy jewellery to mark special occasions

KEANES JEWELLERS has been reducing staff hours, watching stock levels and increasing its sterling silver range to combat the effects of the recession.

The family-owned business founded by director Gerard Keane’s parents 61 years ago has branches in Cork, Limerick and Killarney. In April, because of quieter business, up to four staff had their working week reduced from five days to three. “We don’t want to lose them and, by July, most of those on shorter days will be back full-time,” says Keane.

“We still want to hold on to these people because they are so good and have gone through all the training. We have a very loyal and supportive staff.”

He says demand for diamond jewellery has weakened, but sales in diamond rings and sterling silver remain strong. “Diamond jewellery has slowed a little bit because people’s buying ability has been reduced. That includes bracelets, earrings and pendants, but diamond ring jewellery is still strong because people are still getting engaged and married.”

The outlets are also selling an “enormous amount” of sterling silver products for Communion and Confirmation gifts.

“We reckon revenue will be down a bit this year, but we are coming down from the heights of 2007, which was a record year. We are optimistic but we certainly need to keep our nose to the grind stone,” he says. “People may have a little less to spend, but there will always be engagements, anniversaries and some item will commemorate that. We have such a vast range from under €100 to €1,000 that we can happily accommodate them.”

Keane says the biggest challenge facing the business is finding a large range of products.

“People are still excited about seeing a new product so we want to see anything that’s fresh. We are lucky we can stock up and afford it.”

Tell us your story at aftertheboom@irishtimes.com