First Free-Standing Kay Jewelers in the U.S.
Client: Sterling Jewelers (Kay Jewelers, Jared Galleria of Jewelry, Zales)
Location: Warner Robins, Georgia
Timeline: Partnership since 2007
Challenge
Sterling Jewelers sought to expand its footprint in Warner Robins, GA—a market anchored by a strong-performing store near the local Air Force base. The challenge was twofold: accommodate the brand’s growing customer base and create a new retail format that would set a precedent for the company nationwide.
Approach
Edie’s team partnered closely with Sterling to identify and secure the optimal site for a landmark project—the first free-standing Kay Jewelers in the United States.
Key Strategies:
Site Selection: Leveraged market data and deep local knowledge to identify a high-visibility, high-traffic location.
Performance-Driven Decision: Chose Warner Robins for its proven sales performance and the steady demand generated by the nearby Air Force base.
Brand Showcase: Designed the location to stand independently, providing Kay with increased branding impact, greater flexibility in store layout, and enhanced customer convenience.
Results
Historic First: Successfully launched the nation’s first free-standing Kay Jewelers.
Market Strength: Built on an already strong-performing market, maximizing ROI for Sterling.
Brand Visibility: Created a format that reinforced Kay’s market leadership and provided a blueprint for future expansion opportunities.
Quote:
"Warner Robins wasn’t just a great market—it was the perfect stage to make history for Kay Jewelers." — Edie Weintraub
