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Laurie Owen: Inventory Turns

Stats to know for your store.

Published

18 years ago

January 1, 2006

David Squires Instore January 2006 Issue

1.4

What is it? It’s the number of inventory turns you should be shooting for per year. (Of course, if your turn is higher, all we have to say is … well played, sir, well played.) Typical is 1.1 to 1.4 turns per year, according to a 2001 Jewelers of America “Cost of Doing Business” survey. Your store’s profit margin is an important consideration here. Says David Geller: “A gross margin of 50 percent goes well with a turn of ‘one’. Less than that and you may have problems making profits”. Geller reasons that since most jewelers have profit margins in the 41 to 48 percent range, they need at least a 1.25 turn to stay healthy. And for optimum health, you should shoot for a 1.4 turn.

Strategy: How can you move your entire inventory an average of one and a half times per year? Two keys: 1.) Re-order fast sellers frequently – as often as weekly, and 2.) Have your hand on the switch, ready to euthanize any dogs the very instant they turn one year old. Be ruthless! Keep turning!

This story is from the January 2006 edition of INSTORE.

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.”