Darren Fries
(PRESS RELEASE) PITTSBURGH, PA – LFS Consultants, a recognized leader in jewelry liquidations, announces Darren Fries has joined the company as its new vice-president & director of sales. Fries was most recently vice-president for Simplex Consulting, LLC. He will join Melvin Schmidt, COO of LFS Consultants, implementing the company’s sales strategy and business development plans intended to increase their presence within the liquidation sales market.
“We are enthusiastic about Darren joining our team.” said Schmidt. “His extensive experience working with jewelers and other retailers across the county, means he really understands the challenges they face and is prepared to discuss the best options open to them.”
Fries attributes the work ethic and customer service focus of both LFS, and their parent company Don Conkey & Sons, as the main reason for accepting this new position. “Having a chance to work with a consulting group that shares the same values I have built my career on was the main driving force behind my decision to join LFS Consultants.”
Fries comes to LFS Consultants with over 27 years of sales and management experience in retail consulting. He has worked with both independent stores and national chains analyzing and resolving key business issues facing owners, including financial, marketing, promotions, trade shows and management. Fries has worked with jewelry stores that are members of RJO, IJO, CBG as well as AGS stores.
Like most retail segments today, the retail jewelry industry is undergoing constant change. The ability to adapt to these changes whether through financial analysis or marketing adjustments cannot be underestimated. Fries looks forward to expanding the number of clients LFS Consultants can help, and he is well positioned to be a valuable resource when working with financial institutions and asset based lending groups.
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“I am excited to help LFS Consultants assist future clients who face challenges with their business. We know how to plan an event that will produce the highest return for inventory and assets.”
Closing With Confidence: How Bailey's Fine Jewelry Achieved Outstanding Results With Wilkerson
When Trey Bailey, President and CEO of Bailey's Fine Jewelry, decided to close the Crabtree location in Raleigh, North Carolina after 15 years, he knew the decision needed to be handled with intention and professionalism. The goal was clear: exit the location while maintaining financial strength and honoring the store's legacy.
Having worked with Wilkerson successfully in the past, Bailey understood the value of their comprehensive approach. "They understood both the emotional and financial sides of the store closing sale," Trey explains. "Their reputation for professionalism, results and care made it a very easy decision."
The results exceeded expectations. Wilkerson helped Bailey's sell through significant inventory while maintaining the dignity of the closing process. "They don't just run a sale, they help close a chapter in the best way possible," Bailey says, strongly recommending Wilkerson to any jeweler facing a similar transition.
