Editor's Note

Security Isn’t a Fun Topic, But It’s More Necessary Than Ever

The proliferation of jewelry crimes makes improved safety measures crucial for independent jewelers.

Published

12 months ago

March 29, 2024

Trace Shelton Instore April 2024 Issue

THIS ISSUE, WE cover a topic that is not particularly enjoyable to think about or discuss, and yet, it’s one of the most important subjects in the jewelry business: security.

In fact, with the variety of methods that criminals are using these days to acquire their ill-gotten goods, it’s more critical than ever to know how to keep yourself, your team and your business safe.

From armed robbery to burglary to credit card fraud, thieves have a multitude of methods to threaten your business (and worse, your people). Managing editor Eileen McClelland has done a terrific job in our lead story of gathering tips and advice from safety experts as well as store owners who have experienced these crimes firsthand. (Eileen gathered so much excellent information that we couldn’t fit it all into our allotted page count, so be sure to visit instoremag.com/safety to read the rest!)

Additionally, the story includes resources you can use to make your store safer. One such resource is the Jewelers Crime Alert Network, a Facebook group with 7,300-plus members that shares information about crimes and the criminals who commit them. I hope everyone reading this will join the group, for your own safety.

Speaking of security, the person who’s been synonymous with security in the jewelry industry for more than three decades, Jewelers’ Security Alliance president John Kennedy, is hanging up his suit and tie to enjoy a well-earned retirement. Thank you, John, for keeping us up to date on crime and teaching us how to stay safe for the past 32 years!

Trace Shelton

Editor-in-Chief, INSTORE
trace@smartworkmedia.com

Five Smart Tips You’ll Find in This Issue

Create a special case in your store during the month of May for affordable graduation gifts. (Manager’s To-Do, p. 22)
Windex all of your showcase glass after you pull the jewelry at night so you can get fingerprints if criminals attack. (The Big Story, p. 28)
Place security cameras at eye level so that law enforcement can identify the faces of criminals. (The Big Story, p. 28)
Ask everyone to unmask before they enter your store to capture their face on video. (The Big Story, p. 28)
Negotiate with local businesses to give them exposure at your events in exchange for better rates or complimentary services for flowers, catering, etc. (Megan Crabtree, p. 84)

Ready to Relocate? Wilkerson Makes Your Move Seamless

When Brockhaus Jewelry decided to leave their longtime West Main Street storefront for a standalone building elsewhere in Norman, Oklahoma, owners John Brockhaus and Brad Shipman faced a familiar challenge: how to efficiently reduce inventory before the big move. Their solution? Partnering with liquidation specialists Wilkerson for a second time. "We'd already experienced Wilkerson's professionalism during a previous sale," Shipman recalls. "But their approach to our relocation event truly impressed us. They strategically prioritized our existing pieces while tactfully introducing complementary merchandise as inventory levels decreased." The carefully orchestrated sale didn't just meet targets—it shattered them. Asked if they'd endorse Wilkerson to industry colleagues planning similar transitions—whether relocating, retiring, or refreshing their space—both partners were emphatic in their approval. "The entire process was remarkably straightforward," Shipman notes. "Wilkerson delivered a well-structured program, paired us with a knowledgeable advisor, and managed every detail flawlessly from concept to completion."