With news of the Trump Administration threatening and imposing tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China it is expected that many Kansas City businesses will see higher costs that will be in turn passed on to the consumer. However, one local business, Waldo Jewelers, has positioned themselves to not be reliant on foreign supply chains.
The traditional business model for most jewelry stores is to buy mass produced merchandise that originates from overseas for eventual display in a retail showroom. The majority jewelers are adept at retail but do not actually produce jewelry on-site.
Breaking with that tradition, Waldo Jewelers has built a vertically integrated jewelry design studio and factory right here in Kansas City, which is self-sufficient relying only on domestically sourced materials to craft custom designed engagement rings, wedding rings, and specialty jewelry directly to the end consumer.
Michael Marentes, the Founder of Waldo Jewelers adds, “We do not have a big showroom with price point driven goods from China and India. Here (at Waldo Jewelers) we have KC jewelers taking US sourced materials like gold, platinum, gemstones and making spectacular engagement rings one at a time.” Quality control throughout the process is paramount in making one-of-a-kind jewelry. Keeping the process in house from start to finish ensures the client leaves with a durable American made ring that will stand the test of time.
This business model benefits the consumer by giving access to trendy styles in a timely manner, rather than when the style is eventually available at retailers in the Midwest. Additionally, without the third-party costs, such as tariffs and shipping, Waldo Jewelers can offer its product at a price that is more attainable to the average consumer.