(PRESS RELEASE) SOUTHPORT, CT — Stephen Barnes was surprised with the presentation of the “Ultimate Achievement Award” in general session at the spring show of the Independent Jewelers Organization in Phoenix, AZ.
According to presenter Jeff Roberts, IJO’s president & CEO, “This award is for an individual who not only embodies all that a Master IJO Jeweler stands for, but someone who goes above and beyond with a willingness to help others. This particular individual is always there and willing to help at any time whether it’s for a business reason, a personal reason, help with a question on the INDY Channel, help with the organization of the Sunday morning non-denominational services we have here at our conferences – and more. This person, Stephen Barnes, exemplifies all that is good in people, and all that is good in IJO.”
Penny Palmer, IJO’s director of member services, added, “Congratulations, Stephen, on your well-deserved Ultimate Appreciation Award. Everything you do comes from the heart and you give so much to this organization and your fellow members. Thank you!”
“I am truly humbled and grateful for this recognition from IJO,” said Barnes. “A big part of who I am is because of all the love and kindness shown to me by IJO and my fellow IJO Jewelers. I can never give back all that this organization has given to me. IJO has without question the greatest influence on the success of our industry. I am blessed to be a part of it and my only hope is that I can continue to be a source of inspiration and encouragement to other IJO Jewelers. Thank you, Jeff, for your leadership and mentoring me throughout my career.”
IJO is an international organization focused on helping its members work smarter through networking and education to increase sales and profits. For information on qualifications for membership call Penny Palmer at 800-624-9252.
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."
