Debt Advice
Gemstone, which launched in 2001 and is headquartered in Solihull, is a financial solutions company that specialises in assisting consumers who find themselves financially overstretched. Offering appropriate debt advice and support, Gemstone provides directly or via a specialised panel of providers versatile services that are aimed at consolidating the existing personal situation, thereafter delivering peace of mind and financial control.
Brand Development
Gemstone’s continued success has led to it deciding to refresh their brand. Gemstone commissioned the services of Bromsgrove based B1 to develop the new look branding, logo and website, which now incorporates a blog.
Jason Manning, Managing Director of B1, commented:
“The new Gemstone brand is designed to reflect the core values of this caring, responsible business. We wanted to enhance the open, friendly and personal services offered by Gemstone, creating a brand that was non-intimidating, calm, trustworthy and approachable.”
Gemstone has also just begun to embrace the world of social media working with Redditch based Social Marketer. Gemstone’s presence on Facebook via their fan page and Twitter is meant to be informative as well as personable.
Careers
At a time when the West Midlands suffers from the highest level of unemployment in the country, it is great news for local people that may be just seeking a job that they could possibly even secure a career. Gemstone has recently recruited for a number of key positions (and continues to do so) has just launched its own internal Training Academy.
Once staff have progressed through their induction and ongoing structured training programme, they can elect to take accredited professional qualifications offered by the trade body Gemstone helped to found.
Neil Bowler, a Director at Gemstone, also sits on the board of the Debt Resolution Forum commented:
"We have always sought to invest and develop staff as we recognise that it is our people and their expertise who drive the business forward. We are also currently looking at the feasibility of Apprenticeships".
Sector Overview
Some businesses operating within the private sector in respect of debt advice have been severely criticised, even punished, by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). Meanwhile Gemstone continues to enjoy an enviable reputation for quality and ethics.
Clive Margetts, Managing Director of Gemstone commented:
"Our changes are hugely exciting and we are well placed for a successful 2011. As an established firm that has traditionally gained most of our customers from the recommendation of others, we are now seeking to make consumers more generally aware of our service excellence".
