February 10, 2011

In this week's continuing series of providing information service to your clients, I came across this article that applies to Jewelry Stores. For many stations, this can be one of your top clients. Cut and paste this and send it to your client with a note that says something like, "I saw this and thought of you!"

Jeweler Optimism Tilts Upward in 2011

With sales up double-digits over last year and a happy holiday season, jewelers that responded to National Jeweler's annual post-holiday sales survey reported strong optimism regarding business heading into 2011.

A vast majority of respondents (74%) said they are somewhat (46%) or very optimistic (28%) about their business prospects for the year.

Both retailers who have been open for decades, such as M.B. Rich Jewelry Inc., and relative newcomers feel good about the year ahead.

M.B. Rich owner Michael B. Richard said he saw engagement ring sales at his Lake Charles, La., store gain momentum toward the end of the year, landing him in the "very optimistic" category for 2011.

M. Drew Sorensen, owner of Michael Jewelers in Pocatello, Idaho, also is among those with high hopes for the year. Sorensen opened his shop in 2009, after years of working as a goldsmith in his father's now-closed jewelry shop, Imperial Crown Jewelers, in the same town.

He said orders for bridal, custom work and repairs flooded in last year. He also said customers didn't hesitate to order custom pieces in gold, despite the metal's high price. "It was overwhelming," he said. "It was very busy."

Sorensen said his workload has remained steady into the new year, leading him to believe his business will continue to grow in 2011.

"It's already starting off (strong), so I'm very optimistic," he said.

(Source: National Jeweler, 01/26/11)