Headlines

With Jared Sales Down Sharply, Signet CEO Cites Effect of Presidential Candidates

Published

8 years ago

August 29, 2016

Bridal customers are looking for stability, says Mark Light.

Same-stores sales are down 7.6 percent at the 270 Jared stores, and the reason could be politics, says Mark Light, chief executive officer of Jared parent Signet Jewelers Ltd., which also owns the Signet, Kay and Zales brands. Light told the Times-Picayune of New Orleans that upcoming U.S. elections are unsettling bridal customers. “They just want to get some stability and understand what’s going on as a whole in the world and what’s going on in the presidential election,” Light told the newspaper. Another possible factor affecting sales overall: the Jared chain’s 24 stores in Texas, where business has softened because of the oil glut.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”