Fred Meyer Jewelers, a prominent name in the North American jewelry retail landscape, has a history intertwined with the evolution of the industry itself. Established in 1950 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, as a family-owned business, it has grown to become a significant part of the Kroger Co., operating over 150 stores and an e-commerce platform. While the company’s trajectory involves acquisitions and leadership changes, its continued presence as a leading jewelry retailer is noteworthy. This article will explore the history of Fred Meyer Jewelers, its current standing, and, drawing from mentions within the provided materials, highlight the significance of peridot, specifically as August’s birthstone, as featured in one of their collections.
A History of Growth and Adaptation
The origins of Fred Meyer Jewelers lie in the entrepreneurial spirit of Andy Meyer, who founded the business in 1950. His son, Jim Meyer, continued to build upon this foundation, maintaining the family-owned character of the enterprise for many years. A pivotal moment in the company’s history arrived in 1999 when The Kroger Co., a major player in the grocery and retail sectors, acquired Fred Meyer and, consequently, Fred Meyer Jewelers. This acquisition marked a period of expansion and integration within a larger corporate structure.
Further growth occurred in 1998 with the acquisition of Littman Jewelers, leading to promotions within the Fred Meyer Jewelers leadership. Pete Engel, a long-serving employee who began as a sales associate in 1981, rose through the ranks, becoming president of Fred Meyer Jewelers in 2005. His tenure, spanning decades, demonstrates a commitment to the jewelry industry and a deep understanding of its operations. Engel’s contributions were recognized through prestigious awards, including the Women’s Jewelry Association’s Ben Kaiser Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 and the American Gem Society’s Triple Zero Award in 2017. He also actively participated in industry organizations such as Jewelers for Children, the Diamond Council of America, and Diamonds Do Good.
However, the retail landscape is constantly evolving, and Fred Meyer Jewelers has faced challenges alongside its successes. In recent years, the company made the strategic decision to close 71 stores located within Kroger Marketplace stores. Despite these closures, Fred Meyer Jewelers remains a substantial entity, ranking as the 23rd largest fine jewelry seller in North America, with estimated jewelry and watch sales of $344 million. Recent leadership transitions, with the departure of Engel, Kirsten Darrow, and Carolyn Dabbundo, have been managed by promoting existing leadership, Jon Cook and Julie Keeney, who now report to Todd Kammeyer, the vice president of merchandising for the Fred Meyer chain of grocery stores.
Peridot: August’s Birthstone
Within the provided materials, a specific mention is made of peridot as “August’s birthstone,” featured in a “Bullseye” necklace with vintage bakelite. This connection highlights the enduring tradition of associating gemstones with specific months, a practice deeply rooted in history and symbolism. While the sources do not delve into the geological origins or gemological properties of peridot, its inclusion in a featured collection underscores its aesthetic appeal and cultural significance.
The Retail Landscape and Collaborative Collections
Fred Meyer Jewelers, like other major jewelry retailers, actively engages in collaborations and showcases new collections to attract customers and stay current with market trends. The materials mention a collaboration between Stephanie Gottlieb Fine Jewelry and Oak and Luna, focusing on “understated essentials.” This demonstrates a commitment to offering diverse styles and catering to a range of consumer preferences. The company also highlights significant jewelry pieces, such as the “Victoria” necklace featuring labradorite and diamond accents, and promotes high-value auctions with collections estimated to fetch millions of dollars.
Leadership and Industry Involvement
The leadership at Fred Meyer Jewelers has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the broader jewelry industry. Pete Engel’s involvement in organizations like Jewelers for Children, the Diamond Council of America, and Diamonds Do Good reflects a dedication to ethical practices, industry standards, and charitable initiatives. His long-term service and recognition within the industry underscore the importance of experienced leadership in navigating the complexities of the jewelry market. The current leadership team, led by Jon Cook and Julie Keeney, continues to build upon this foundation, reporting to Todd Kammeyer and contributing to the overall success of the Fred Meyer chain.
Adapting to Market Changes
The jewelry industry is undergoing significant changes, including the rise of lab-grown diamonds and evolving grading standards. The materials mention that Jewelers of America is actively working to protect the industry amidst rising economic threats. Furthermore, the industry is grappling with new classification systems for lab-grown stones, with one organization proposing a “premium” or “standard” categorization instead of traditional color and clarity grades. These developments highlight the need for adaptability and innovation within the jewelry sector.
In-Store Services and Repair
Fred Meyer Jewelers distinguishes itself by offering in-store jewelry repair services, performed by a skilled jeweler. This provides customers with convenience and assurance, as repairs are completed on-site. This service adds value to the customer experience and reinforces the company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Fred Meyer Jewelers has evolved significantly since its inception in 1950, transitioning from a family-owned business to a prominent component of The Kroger Co. Its history is marked by strategic acquisitions, dedicated leadership, and a commitment to adapting to the changing retail landscape. The mention of peridot as August’s birthstone, featured in a distinctive necklace, highlights the company’s connection to the enduring traditions and aesthetic appeal of gemstones. Through collaborative collections, industry involvement, and in-store services, Fred Meyer Jewelers continues to serve as a leading jewelry retailer in North America.