The West Coast’s biggest jeweler, Ben Bridge, celebrated its 110th anniversary last year, and reinforced its attachment to the local communities its 36 stores serve by donating $110,000 to non-profits working to improve educational opportunities and build brighter futures.
There were also significant developments on the retail front, with the business opening a new store under its Ben Bridge Timeworks brand, which focuses on premium watches, in its home city of Seattle. Timeworks opened directly across from a newly remodeled Ben Bridge store close to Seattle’s University of Washington.
The timing of this year’s Hot 100 was just too early to showcase the biggest news for Ben Bridge, which is the relocation of its flagship store in downtown Seattle (which has opened since the book was published).
It is an emotional moment for the team, as the current showroom has stood on the same site for 94 years.
Ben Bridge is pushing upmarket with its watch and jewelry offer, operating fewer stores but with an elevated portfolio in each.
Much of these efforts will be led by Angela Hope, Ben Bridge’s vice-president of merchandise.
A prime example is the opening of its first Rolex boutique in the beautiful Ala Moana center in Honolulu.
“We have been a part of the community there for more than three decades and are thrilled about what the new boutique will bring to the market,” says chief executive Lisa Bridge.
High-end watches require servicing and repairs, which is why Ben Bridge is investing in its watchmaking team under managers Miguel Sherlock and Tim Louis, who have launched an in-house program for student watchmakers to enter the trade with no previous experience required.
This summer Ben Bridge will have its first paid summer interns joining from local high schools.
Lisa says the company’s theme for this year is “planting our flag”, which will be done through revitalized spaces, continued education and training and investment in modern technology.
“All of this will continue to evolve and improve both customer and associate experience,” she promises.
After supporting each other through some of the most challenging years in Ben Bridge’s 110-year history, the senior team is being rewarded with a trip to Hawaii, where store and office managers, along with the executive team and all spouses, will come together for a well-deserved retreat in Waikiki.
The perfect spot for another group shot for next year’s Hot 100, perhaps?
