It’s a way to ‘level the playing field,’ company says.
(Press Release) SHELTON, CT — Abbott Jewelry Systems, creator of The Edge retail jewelry management system, has added jewelry care protection plans to its software, providing independent retail jewelers the same sales advantage as the majors.
Independent jewelers can now offer jewelry care protection plans for their customers’ peace of mind, in addition to helping them close sales at the counter. The plans offered are available through industry insurance leader JM Care Plan, a member of the Jewelers Mutual Group, and IJB/Wexler/Montage Group.
“The major jewelry chains have long offered jewelry care protection plans not only as an added revenue stream, but also as an advantage over the independent jeweler,” said Dick Abbott, CEO of Abbott Jewelry Systems. “It’s high time independents level the playing field.”
Jewelry sales, jewelry care income and financing are three important profit centers for chain jewelry stores. Abbott Jewelry Systems has been looking for innovative ways to help customers beyond the scope of traditional jewelry software. “We’re committed to providing the independent jeweler with the features and functionality which enable them to compete and win in an ever-evolving retail environment,” Abbott added.
Four Decades of Excellence: How Wilkerson Transformed a Jeweler's Retirement into Celebration
After 45 years serving the Milwaukee community, Treiber & Straub Jewelers owner Michael Straub faced a significant life transition. At 75, the veteran jeweler made a personal decision many business owners understand: "I think it's time. I want to enjoy my wife with my grandchildren for the next 10, 15 years."
Wilkerson's expertise transformed this major business transition into an extraordinary success. Their comprehensive approach to managing the going-out-of-business sale created unprecedented customer response—with lines forming outside the store and limits on how many shoppers could enter at once due to fire safety regulations.
The results exceeded all expectations. "Wilkerson did a phenomenal job," Straub enthuses. "They were there for you through the whole thing, helped you with promoting it, helping you on day-to-day business. I can't speak enough for how well they did." The partnership didn't just facilitate a business closing; it created a celebratory finale to decades of service while allowing Straub to confidently step into his well-earned retirement.
