Big Survey

$50,000 Is a Critically Important Number for Many Jewelers

Bad things happen beyond that amount.

Published

8 years ago

October 20, 2016

James Ritchie

WE RECENTLY TOLD YOU about the unexpected expenses that really hurt jewelers.

Building and equipment maintenance turned out to be the most common source of unanticipated financial pain. Still, many other events also put a surprise dent in jewelers’ pocketbooks, from robberies to diamond breakage.

But did you ever wonder how much financial damage your peers in the business are prepared to withstand?

For Big Survey 2016, we asked, “How large in dollar terms would an unexpected expense have to be to put a serious strain on your business?”

The most common answer was $50,000, and there were also clusters at $10,000 and $100,000.

A few jewelers said they wouldn’t be able to sustain any amount. As one told us: “We have only been open 2.5 years. Every penny is a serious strain on our business.”

$50,000 Is a Critically Important Number for Many Jewelers

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.”