How does an iconic Kiwi brand recover from store closures, falling earnings, and the deaths of its founder and CEO? Jonathan Waecker, new CEO of Michael Hill, talks about stepping in to honour the jeweller’s legacy while creating urgent change.

Jonathan talks through the high-stakes call to drop newer sub-brands, moving to a fully private-label model, and cornering the “mass premium” market. Learn how Canada has become the company's primary growth engine, with 85% of sales now outside NZ, and whether customers still want affordable luxury during an economic downturn.

How is a jeweller impacted by the rising prices of gold and silver? What’s the role of the velvet-rope retail store in an era where you can Doordash a diamond ring? What’s got institutional investors like the ACC doubling their stake?

Plus, the story of how Michael Hill was born out of a house fire in 1977.

For more places to follow Shared Lunch—check out http://linktr.ee/sharedlunch

Shared Lunch is brought to you by Sharesies Australia Limited (ABN 94 648 811 830; AFSL 529893) in Australia and Sharesies Limited (NZ) in New Zealand. It is not financial advice. Information provided is general only and current at the time it’s provided, and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation and needs. We do not provide recommendations and you should always read the disclosure documents available from the product issuer before making a financial decision. Our disclosure documents and terms and conditions—including a Target Market Determination and IDPS Guide for Sharesies Australian customers—can be found on our relevant Australian or NZ website.

Investing involves risk. You might lose the money you start with. If you require financial advice, you should consider speaking with a qualified financial advisor. Past performance is not a guarantee of future performance.

Appearance on Shared Lunch is not an endorsement by Sharesies of the views of the presenters, guests, or the entities they represent. Their views are their own.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.