Brainstorms

Want to Make Your Clients Feel Loved? Hire a Store Grandma

It made one store $200,000.

Published

1 year ago

February 16, 2023

INSTORE Staff Instore February 2023 Issue

Want to Make Your Clients Feel Loved? Hire a Store Grandma

There are some things a grandmother does better than just about anyone else, like birthday wishes. If it’s your big day and you’re a regular customer of The Diamond Family in St Louis, MO, you can expect a call from Linda, their “store grandma,” to wish you the best for the day. Perry’s Emporium in Wilmington, NC, created a similar position for a former sales associate to call customers to wish them happy birthday, anniversary, or to welcome them back into the store after a year-long absence with a $50 gift certificate to use any way they wish. The program generated $200,000 the first year, says owner Alan Perry.

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.”