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On Successful Sale Events and More of Your Letters from August

One reader is looking for good ways to clear out her inventory dawgs.

Published

5 years ago

August 9, 2019

INSTORE Staff Instore August 2019 Issue

On “Best Day Ever”

We enjoyed reading “Best Day Ever.” We used to think that day was ahead of us rather than behind us. With recent things going on, that sadly may not be the case. We hope we are wrong in those future tidings. — Alex Weil, Martin’s Jewelry, Torrance, CA

It was a good article. The jewelry industry is old and beat up. The article hopefully gives life to those who are ready to throw in the towel. — Christopher Sarich, Noah Gabriel & Co. Jewelers, Wexford, PA

Loving Decker

We love your magazine! July was a good edition. We would like to see more articles by Shane Decker! — Sarah Vatter, Thomas Michaels Designers, Camden, ME

Kickstart My Dawg

With mid-year inventory reviews in the rearview mirror and serious thought going into dumping the underperforming dawgs, I was curious as to the best options other stores have successfully tried? One we recently were batting around was a Facebook auction for those “lazy items.” Who doesn’t love a sale and then frenzied bidding until the buzzer rings? We also considered if the item sold for more than its original retail value (hey, it could happen!), then we could donate the excess. Our customers could choose from the store’s favorite charities. All transactions would be done in the store to avoid those less scrupulous types. Has anyone tried this? Tips, suggestions or cautions? — Denise Oros, Linnea Jewelers, La Grange, IL

Time to Adjust

Online jewelry sales have hurt the brick-and-mortar establishments, but it’s time to move on and adjust to market changes. Nothing can replace quality personal service, and the Internet does not offer face-to-face interaction with a live human being with knowledge and a kind demeanor. — Joe Caron, Caron’s Jewelry, Bristol, RI

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.”