(PRESS RELEASE) SOUTHPORT, CT — The Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) held its 2nd Annual NextGen Jewelers Workshop on January 18-20, 2025, in Savannah, Georgia. Fifty-seven attendees, representing 33 IJO retail stores, IJO Headquarters, and seven supplier sponsors, gathered at the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District for a memorable retreat. This three-day workshop focused on relationship-building and preparing NextGen IJO Jewelers for all aspects of the jewelry business.
“This year, we wanted to build on some of the foundational principles we explored last year,” said IJO President Stephen Barnes. “We chose to focus on relationships and how important they are in growing our businesses. Building strong relationships with customers, vendors, and peers is the cornerstone of a solid business foundation.”
Generously sponsoring this event were Parle, The Edge Software, Ostbye, Quality Gold, Pancis Gems, Wilkerson, and The Edge Retail Academy. The weekend kicked off with a vendor panel discussion on forming partnerships with the right vendors and fostering mutually beneficial growth.
The workshop continued with a dynamic presentation by Tim Ell of Zorells Jewelry (Bismarck, ND), who shared the marketing strategies that have driven his success over the last 20 years. His message encouraged attendees to think outside the box and “do what you are not supposed to do.”
The weekend progressed with sessions on Key POS reports to monitor regularly, using industry data to optimize inventory management, setting meaningful goals and achieving them, and analyzing financial reports to maximize profitability. The workshop concluded with a powerful message from Tim Ell about resilience, self-belief, and overcoming challenges to achieve success.
Kimberly Snow of Ellsworth Jewelers (Ellsworth, ME) shared:
“I laughed, I cried, I learned, and most of all… I was inspired! The IJO Next Gen Workshop 2025 was unforgettable. I’m grateful for the wisdom shared by the speakers and the support from our amazing sponsors. Here’s to turning inspiration into action!”
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IJO provides younger jewelers with opportunities to connect with their peers through education and social events at both of its conferences. In addition, the annual Next Gen Workshop fosters deeper engagement and professional growth.
Barnes added: “This group of amazing jewelers is our future, and at IJO, we will continue to invest in them as best we can.”
For information on IJO membership, call Penny Palmer at 800.624.9252.
