Fred Meyer Jewelers has established itself as a significant presence in the American jewelry market since its founding in 1950. Originating as a family-owned business in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the company has grown to encompass over 150 stores alongside a robust e-commerce platform, ranking among the top 25 largest fine jewelry sellers in North America with an estimated $344 million in jewelry and watch sales. While the company offers a broad range of jewelry, including diamond and pearl pieces, a significant portion of its catalog features gemstone jewelry, including birthstone necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets. This article will explore the history of Fred Meyer Jewelers, its product offerings, and its position within the jewelry industry, drawing solely from the available sources.
A History of Growth and Adaptation
Meyer Jewelers began as a local Wisconsin business, built on a foundation of providing unique, high-quality jewelry at affordable prices. Jim Meyer continued the business started by his father, Andy, maintaining a commitment to customer service and a wide selection of jewelry, including engagement rings, wedding bands, and Pandora items. The company’s growth trajectory accelerated with its acquisition by The Kroger Co. in 1999. This acquisition facilitated expansion, leading to the establishment of stores within Kroger Marketplace locations and further solidifying Fred Meyer Jewelers’ national reach.
However, the company has also faced periods of restructuring. In recent years, 71 Fred Meyer Jewelers stores located within Kroger Marketplace stores were closed, signaling a shift in strategy. Despite these changes, the company maintains a strong presence and continues to operate as an important part of the Kroger Co., focusing on its remaining brick-and-mortar locations and its online operations.
Leadership transitions have also marked the company’s history. Pete Engel, a long-serving executive who began with the company in 1981 as a sales associate and rose to become President in 2005, exited in March, alongside Kirsten Darrow and Carolyn Dabbundo. Jon Cook and Julie Keeney now lead the jeweler, reporting to Todd Kammeyer, the vice president of merchandising for the Fred Meyer chain of grocery stores. Engel’s departure marks the end of a significant era for the company, as he was a well-respected figure in the fine jewelry industry, serving on the boards of several prominent organizations, including Jewelers for Children and the Diamond Council of America.
Product Range and Customer Service
Fred Meyer Jewelers offers a diverse selection of jewelry, catering to a wide range of tastes and occasions. The product catalog is organized into several key categories: engagement & wedding jewelry, rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, men’s jewelry, and children’s jewelry. Within these categories, customers can find items featuring diamonds, pearls, and a variety of gemstones. The company also offers popular styles such as birthstone jewelry, religious jewelry, and charm bracelets.
The company’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in its return policy, which allows customers to return online orders within 60 days (and 30 days for watch orders). Customers can contact customer service for detailed instructions on returns for specific items. Fred Meyer Jewelers also provides order tracking and accepts major credit cards, PayPal, and gift cards, utilizing SSL technology to ensure secure online transactions. The company actively engages with customers through social media, providing updates on new arrivals, coupons, and special offers.
Gemstone Jewelry and Birthstone Offerings
A significant portion of Fred Meyer Jewelers’ inventory focuses on gemstone jewelry. The company offers gemstone rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, providing customers with a wide array of options. The availability of birthstone jewelry is specifically highlighted as a popular style, suggesting a focus on personalized and meaningful gifts. While the specific gemstones offered are not detailed in the provided sources, the emphasis on birthstones indicates an understanding of the cultural significance and consumer demand for these items.
The “Victoria” necklace, featuring a labradorite accented with diamonds in 18-karat yellow gold, exemplifies the company’s design aesthetic and its use of colored gemstones. This piece demonstrates a blend of classic and contemporary styles, appealing to a broad customer base. The inclusion of labradorite, August’s birthstone, in the “Bullseye” necklace further highlights the company’s connection to birthstone jewelry.
Industry Position and Future Outlook
Fred Meyer Jewelers occupies a notable position within the competitive jewelry market. As the 23rd largest fine jewelry seller in North America, the company has established a strong brand recognition and a loyal customer base. The company’s association with The Kroger Co. provides a stable financial foundation and access to a vast network of potential customers.
Despite recent store closures, Fred Meyer Jewelers remains committed to being a leading jewelry retailer. The company’s focus on both brick-and-mortar locations and e-commerce operations positions it to adapt to evolving consumer preferences. The company’s leadership team, under the guidance of Jon Cook and Julie Keeney, is focused on prioritizing investments in the business and maintaining its position as an important part of the Kroger Co. The company’s continued success will likely depend on its ability to innovate, adapt to changing market conditions, and maintain its commitment to quality, price, and value.