True Tales

These Two Store Owners Bit Off More Than They Could Chew

Two tales of free food gone wrong.

Published

3 years ago

September 20, 2021

INSTORE Staff

We used to have an open house in early December. We would put out a couple of trays of crab balls, shrimp and lots of snacks. I told a customer to stop in and have a snack and look around. He brought his entire family in and devoured an entire plate of crab balls and shrimp and then left. I mean … really. Thank God he doesn’t come in anymore. — Tommy Thobe, The Village Gem, Perry Hall, MD
A new staff member decided to stand outside handing out pizza, water and snacks to anyone who wanted a treat. Problem was that she gave away the pizza that I bought for my entire staff. — Earl Grenfell, Spellbound Fine Jewelry, Port Washington, NY

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.”