(PRESS RELEASE) MIAMI, FL — Continental Buying Group (CBG) concluded a successful CBG Miami 2026, uniting independent jewelry retailers and supplier partners for a relationship-focused event at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, January 19-21.
CBG Miami centered on community, access, and collaboration, granting retailers exclusive buying opportunities available only within the network and giving suppliers direct access to top retailers in the jewelry industry. Rather than a traditional trade show, CBG Miami functioned as a working ecosystem, where retailers and suppliers came together with a shared goal: to do better business together.
A Community-First Environment
From the moment of arrival, CBG Miami emphasized connection. The smaller, intimate setting fostered meaningful conversations and peer-to-peer relationship building in an open, participatory environment. Each morning began with a breakfast speaker, featuring Sara Yood (Jewelers Vigilance Committee), Rob Bates (JCKOnline), and Jennifer Shaheen (Technology Therapy Group), who sparked discussion and practical takeaways around business, technology, and navigating the chaos in today’s retail landscape. That programming resonated strongly with retailers.
LeaAnn Fritz of Ramsey-Fritz Jewelers in Tyler, Texas, shared: “I was not sure what to think when I read the lineup of speakers…all three speakers were engaging and informative. The third day was great for a late (A.I.) adopter like me, and I would love to hear her (Jennifer Shaheen, Technology Therapy Group) again. The show itself was a good fill-in event, and I found a couple of new sources, so it was a success.”
Access That Creates Real Value
At the heart of CBG Miami was access. Retailers connected with vetted supplier partners offering programs, pricing, and opportunities not available outside the CBG network. Suppliers, in turn, gained direct access to retailers who are actively investing in their businesses and long-term partnerships.
A highlight was the Curated Designer Pavilion, showcasing the work of four designers: Chris Ploof Designs, Emily Kuvin, Folium, and Miraco. Retailers discovered new collections in an intimate, curated space. A feature CBG plans to expand on for Las Vegas.
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Chris Ploof of Chris Ploof Designs, who participated in the Curated Designer Pavilion, said: “I had a great time at CBG. I’ve always been interested in a show with a smaller, more intimate setting, and I found it at CBG. The vibe of the show was amazing; it felt like family, and the retailers were truly interested in what we brought to the show. I can’t wait for the CBG Las Vegas show to reconnect and meet new friends.”
CBG Miami also served as a launchpad, with partners Caratwise, BIG, Union Gems, and Kallati unveiling new products and services at the event.
Retailers also received updates on the De Beers Desert Diamonds program, which is already having an impact in the marketplace.
A Free Exchange of Ideas and Information
CBG Miami also underscored the importance of open dialogue across the network. Retailers and suppliers freely shared ideas, challenges, and best practices, driven by the understanding that collaboration strengthens the entire group.
“CBG has always been about people first,” said Joe Murphy, CEO of Continental Buying Group. “When retailers and suppliers are brought together in an environment built on openness and mutual respect, real opportunity follows. CBG Miami reflected what makes this group special: access to programs and partners you cannot find elsewhere, and a community that is genuinely invested in each other’s success.”
“CBG works for everyone,” added Matt Tratner, President of Continental Buying Group. “Our role is to create access, bring people together, and help retailers and suppliers collaborate in ways that benefit both sides. When there is a free exchange of ideas and information, the entire network becomes stronger, and everyone is more financially successful.”
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The next CBG event will take place at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, May 26–27. For more information about CBG and applying for membership, email [email protected].
