It is often the owner-managed family businesses that form the backbone of the regional economy. In order to show appreciation for these companies and to feel the pulse of the local business world, the city administration regularly relies on direct exchange on site. In this context, Lord Mayor Frank Frühauf and Caroline Pehlke from the city's business development department recently visited the long-established company Govind Jain & Sohn KG in Idar.
The city delegation was warmly welcomed by company founder Govind Jain and his son Vikas Jain. Govind Jain came to Idar-Oberstein from India in 1975 at the age of 23. The trained emerald cutter founded a gemstone trading company in the diamond and gemstone exchange with a friend. Three years later, he founded his own company with four employees and specialized in calibrated diamonds and coloured stones for jewelry production. The range was later expanded to include all colored stones and gemstone necklaces. In 1987, the premises in the stock exchange became too small and the company moved to Mainzer Strasse.
The fact that the next generation, Vikas Jain, is already firmly integrated into the business processes and taking on responsibility was seen by the visitors as a strong signal of the site's stability and future viability. Father and son guided the guests through the premises and gave detailed insights into the daily work steps as well as the logistical challenges behind the scenes of a specialized gemstone wholesaler. Today, the company offers a unique range of products on an impressive exhibition area of over 600 square meters: From calibrated colored stones to exclusive individual pieces, a huge selection of strands and finished necklaces. The company has developed into one of the leading wholesalers and retailers of gemstones, diamonds and jewelry in Germany.
In addition to the current economic situation, the discussions with the city representatives focused on the company's strategic orientation and its international presence at European trade fairs. Lord Mayor Frank Frühauf was impressed by the combination of proven traditions with modern management approaches. "Direct dialog on site is important to us," emphasized Frühauf. "Only by listening can we understand where the shoe pinches and how we as an administration can provide support." Caroline Pehlke from the business development department also emphasized that a functioning network between local stakeholders and the administration is essential in order to keep the business location attractive in the long term.
The visit ended in an atmosphere of mutual trust. The delegation left with the certainty that Govind Jain & Sohn KG is excellently positioned for the future. Such encounters once again make it clear that behind the company names in the region are faces and families who contribute to Idar-Oberstein's economic diversity with commitment and passion.