Managing Editor SPRINGFIELD At a time when many local retailers are facing increased competition from national or regional chains, Smith & Son Jewelers are not only surviving, but they are growing. The store, which has been a institution in the Forest Park section of Springfield for years, celebrated the grand opening of its new store in Indian Orchard at 568 Main St. on Oct. 20 and 21. Open since May 3, Andrew Smith told Reminder Publications reception to the new store has been "very good." The location, Smith said was ideal as the building, which was a former branch bank, has a vault that was perfect for the secure storage of the store's inventory and plenty of parking. The location's easy access to Indian Orchard, Wilbraham and Ludlow was also a plus. Smith said the family enjoys being part of the "re-building of Indian Orchard." The family has deep roots in the business life of the city. Smith's great-grandfather founded the family's first store in 1918. The current Smith & Son was started in 1959 by Smith's grandfather and father in the X section of Forest Park. After decades at the X, Two years ago the company moved into its own building further up the street at 735 Sumner Ave. Smith said the hallmark of the business has been personal service. "We treat the customer like family," Smith said. The company has watchmakers and jewelers on site something many chain jewelers might lack. No repair or modifications work is done off the premises. Besides fine jewelry and watches, the company carries Llardo collectible porcelain, religious items and baby jewelry. Smith noted that a larger chain store doesn't have as much of an advantage with buying power as one might think. The wholesale cost of jewelry is not as affected by large purchases as other consumer goods can be. the result is that independent jewelers, with lower overhead, can offer consumers competitive prices. | ||||||
