Mike Shorer Fine Jewellery
Combining Craftsmanship and Carbon Reduction in Newhaven
When you enter into Mike Shorer Fine Jewellery, located in Newhaven, you’re stepping into more than just a workshop. His studio is a world of artistry, legacy, and innovation. Mike is an award-winning goldsmith and a seventh-generation craftsman, known for combining traditional techniques with cutting-edge methods to produce bespoke, high-end jewellery and intricate artefacts.
Having trained at the prestigious Sir John Cass School of Art, Mike went on to manage High Street jewellers before taking on senior roles in the industry, including Studio and Workshop Manager at luxury brand Theo Fennell. There, he helped produce exclusive pieces for Harrods, Tiffany New York, and Mitsukoshi in Japan. Over the years, he has crafted bespoke pieces and trophies for royalty, rock and rollers, film and television stars, as well as creating custom-made items for major productions including Gladiator, The Crown, and House of the Dragon.
Image credit: Mike Shorer Fine Jewellery
From Tradition to Transformation
Since relocating to Newhaven in 2009, Mike has become a familiar face in the town, not just for his craftsmanship but for his tireless advocacy of local business. As President of the Newhaven Chamber of Commerce, he’s played a key role in supporting the town’s economic growth and encouraging youth engagement through apprenticeships and school outreach programmes.
Yet like many small businesses, Mike’s business wasn’t immune to the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Supply chain disruptions, operational uncertainties, and rising energy costs created real challenges for him. Despite the interference, he saw it as an opportunity to evolve.
Turning to Let’s Do Business Group for Support
With energy costs soaring, Mike knew he needed to make changes that would future-proof his business. That’s when he discovered the Low Carbon Investment Fund – an initiative backed by the Newhaven Enterprise Zone and delivered by Let’s Do Business Group.
“The funding came through the Newhaven Enterprise Zone, and the process felt really easy in the end. It wouldn’t have been if I’d done it alone, but the support I had made all the difference. I’ve got serious ‘form-o-phobia’! I hate paperwork and usually mess it up, but with help, I got it all done properly and it has made a huge difference.”
Launched by the Newhaven Enterprise Zone (NEZ), the Low Carbon Investment Fund is a targeted pilot scheme created to support the town’s SMEs move towards a net-zero operations through low-carbon innovation and operational upgrades. This fund is one of several which is open to businesses within the Newhaven Enterprise Zone and is looking to pursue growth through low-carbon products, processes, or services – including developing new ideas and products, upgrading equipment or buildings, or finding ways to reuse, recycle, or share materials and resources.
Let’s Do Business Group is working in partnership to administer £300,000 in combined grants across the Low Carbon Investment Fund and the Refurbishment of Employment Space Fund, to support sustainable growth in Newhaven.
With hands-on guidance through the grant application process by Business Manager, Emily Wright, Mike was able to secure funding to transform the energy efficiency of his studio.
Image credit: Mike Shorer Fine Jewellery
Delivering a Greener, More Resilient Future
The funding enabled Mike to install a comprehensive solar panel system and air-conditioning units tied to an energy-efficient heating system. On sunny days, he can now power his entire workshop for under £1.
The investment didn’t stop there. The grant also supported the purchase of state-of-the-art tools and equipment, allowing Mike to expand his services, take on more complex commissions, and stay ahead in a competitive market.
A Champion for Newhaven’s Next Generation
Mike’s focus on growth isn’t limited to his own business. He remains a vocal champion for the regeneration of Newhaven and is actively working to shift perceptions of the town. One of his latest ideas is a Business Expo in the local schools to showcase real career opportunities available in the area.
“If businesses show students that we’re setting them up to succeed and not just leaving them to fail, then it’s all for the better. You’ll start to see some real developments in Newhaven over the next couple of years. We just hope people recognise the effort being made, and in turn, take pride in looking after it.”
Looking Ahead
Mike Shorer Jewellery is a shining example of how heritage businesses can adapt to modern challenges without losing their soul. Through his collaboration with Let’s Do Business Group and the Newhaven Enterprise Zone, Mike has strengthened his operations, reduced his carbon footprint, and reaffirmed his commitment to his community.
If you’re a business in Newhaven and are looking to reduce your environmental impact or invest in your future, then Let’s Do Business Group is here to help. Get in touch today to see how we can support your journey.