Press Releases

Biggest Group Yet for RJO Next Gen Experience

Published

6 years ago

June 8, 2018

INSTORE Staff

(PRESS RELEASE) Oak Brook, IL (May 19 – May 21) – Setting aside time to continually learn about the industry and invest in yourself as an employee is not an easy task. It takes planning and drive. Last month, almost 40 members of RJO spent a weekend retreat at RJO Next Gen 2018. These three days were full of networking, idea sharing, and personal development exercises. RJO’s CEO Sarah Streb says, “This year’s turnout surpassed our already high goal for 2018. It’s incredibly reward- ing to see so many new faces each year.”

Co-facilitators Kate Peterson of Performance Concepts and Sam Centellas of Outsight Consult- ing made sure to keep the group moving both physically and mentally so they got the most out of the weekend. With topics that covered everything from communication styles to inventory man- agement, this whirlwind weekend ensured that attendees went back to their stores brimming with new ideas.

The next RJO Next Generation Experience is made possible by sponsorship from RDI Dia- monds, Ostbye, Stuller, Edge Retail Academy, Diamond Producers Association, Rarest Rainbow, and Federated Insurance.

In keeping with their commitment to further education of the industry, The RJO Foundation awarded over $2,000 total to six applicants in their Spring 2018 cycle. Past awardee Samantha Tupper of Wink’s Jewelry in Brookings, SD says, “I am so thankful to RJO and the RJO Founda- tion.” The RJO Foundation awards scholarships twice a year and is currently accepting ap- plications for the Fall 2018 cycle.

Biggest Group Yet for RJO Next Gen Experience

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.”