(FAIRFIELD, Ohio) – Quality Gold has purchased North American Jewelers, Inc. (NAJ) the Chicago based supplier known for bridal and special occasion diamond jewelry. Along with NAJ, Quality Gold now owns Steckbeck Jewelry PVT LTD (STJPL), its wholly owned subsidiary and manufacturing facility opened in 2003 in Mumbai, India.
Chicago operations of NAJ will eventually relocate to Quality Gold’s corporate headquarters in Fairfield, Ohio. Custom bridal and design services currently provided by NAJ will continue as business is transferred to Quality Gold. The management team of STJPL based in Mumbai, India will continue lead operations and coordinate closely with Quality Gold.
Michael Langhammer, CEO Quality Gold, says: “I have tremendous respect for the business Kurt has built and the product his factory makes. They have well-made product and a loyal retailer base that utilizes his stocked styles as well as for CAD and custom design services in their bridal business. Quality Gold will continue where NAJ left off. All strengths possessed will be integrated and then built upon.”
When Jason Langhammer, COO Quality Gold, added: “This acquisition is an important one for Quality Gold. It accelerates our growth potential within the bridal and engagement sector. I’m pleased that Kurt will be part of the team sharing his knowledge as we work together to achieve growth goals.
“The acquisition of the factory in Mumbai, India fits into our long term strategic plans for Quality Gold. Our customers will benefit from us moving further into the worldwide marketplace with sourcing and production. It complements us well.”
Kurt Steckbeck, will join Quality Gold in the role of Product Development Director for Diamond Jewelry and become part of the transition team that leads the company in the expansion and introduction of bridal designs in the coming year. Michael goes on to say: “Kurt has created ‘Diamond Programs’ for all size retailers. He knows the best-selling styles, he’s been part of sales meetings and negotiated with designers to meet price points. His experience creating customized displays and just in time inventory for finished diamond product in various finger sizes are all assets to the role he’s assuming at Quality Gold. Quality Gold will benefit from him sharing his knowledge as we grow our bridal business together.”
When Kurt Steckbeck, CEO NAJ & STJPL, commented about selling his companies to Quality Gold: “The timing was right. I’ve gotten to know Michael and Jason and feel very comfortable and confident they will continue to provide NAJ customers with the added value and exceptional quality and service they’ve come to expect in the last 30 years. I’m impressed with their operation in Fairfield, Ohio and believe my company and my skill set will mesh with theirs as we develop product to be made at their manufacturing facilities in the USA and in India.”
For more information, please visit www.Qgold.com, www.najewelers.com and www.sbjpl.com.
