Burglaries and robberies are once again surging in the jewelry industry. This is especially concerning because the frequency of these crimes typically subside as we approach year end.“Average claim payouts are the highest they have been in the past 10 years,” said John Fierst, Jewelers Mutual vice president of commercial lines. “There does not appear to be any particular geographic commonality associated with the activity as we are seeing losses in all parts of the U.S. and Canada.”
Jewelers Mutual is encouraging jewelers to practice two very important security measures this holiday season:
1. Document suspicious incidents and share them with staff, local police and other businesses.
2. Respond to EVERY alarm signal. NEVER assume it’s a false alarm.
Because of the growing number of burglaries and robberies, Jewelers Mutual is offering ALL jewelers an opportunity to order FREE signs and displays to be set in showcases and on entrance doors to help discourage criminals. Pictured, see website below for details.
According to the Jewelers’ Security Alliance, over 500 criminal cases have been reported for the first six months of 2019 resulting in losses totaling $31.8 million, the highest six-month total since 2015.
These high-demand resources are typically reserved for policyholders but are now available to the entire industry, compliments of Jewelers Mutual, to support the industry and discourage theft. For additional questions about security or resources, please contact your agent or Jewelers Mutual at 800-336-5642, ext. 2118.
About Jewelers Mutual Group
The Jewelers Mutual Group companies, which are dedicated solely to serving the jewelry industry in the United States and Canada, began in 1913 when a group of Wisconsin jewelers came together to meet their unique insurance needs. Today, the Group’s companies remain the trusted insurance advisor and loss-prevention expert for jewelry retailers large and small, wholesalers, manufacturers, custom designers, and appraisers — and for consumers who protect their personal jewelry and the special moments it represents. For more information, please visit www.jewelersmutual.com.
