Headlines

Wilkerson Names President

Richard Hayes has been with Wilkerson since 1986.

Published

6 years ago

October 25, 2018

INSTORE Staff

(PRESS RELEASE) STUTTGART, AR – Wilkerson named Richard Hayes as its new president at its annual conference held Sept. 24-28. The Stuttgart, AR-based company is the nation’s largest national independent jewelry liquidator by volume. Hayes succeeds company founder Bobby Wilkerson, who will remain as the chairman of the board.

Hayes joined Wilkerson in 1986 and has worked in all facets of the business. That includes management, marketing, promotions, trade shows and financials. As president, he will oversee all of Wilkerson’s multiple divisions. In addition to the national jewelry sale event service, the company also has a retail division and merchandising division.

The company employs more than 40 in-house employees and more than 65 consultants nationwide. It has overseen more than 6,000 successful jewelry store sales over the past 48 years.

Southern Jewelry News described Wilkerson as a company that provides a “graceful and profitable exit” for independent jewelry stores and family-owned businesses.

Hayes grew up in the Stuttgart, AR, area where his family owned several thriving restaurants and various other retail businesses. His successful work in the retail sector drew the attention of Bobby Wilkerson 32 years ago. Wilkerson recruited Hayes to work for his company.

Hayes attributes growing up in a family business – where he gained a strong work ethic in a team-driven environment – to his success. “That’s how I lead – as a team member,” he said. “I believe all employees have a place on the team and their contribution is important. That’s what makes this company so successful.”

Hayes looks forward to applying his years of experience in growing Wilkerson’s business even further.

Paying close attention to data to determine what’s driving trends in the retail industry is also something Hayes feels plays a big role in achieving success.

“The ability to analyze historical data and accurately predict sales with real-time information is key to this industry,” said Hayes.

It was also a topic during the annual conference, where sales consultants from all over the country came to Stuttgart for advanced seminars on digital marketing, advertising, social media, public relations, sales performance, special events and industry updates.

Hayes, who is widely respected in the industry, is often quoted in jewelry industry publications. His advice is in highly sought by retailers, manufacturers and wholesalers.

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.”