After 54 years in RJO, Barton Leddel.
Barton started his business when he got out of the military at 26 and has been coming to the RJO show for 54 years. In the beginning, RJO only had 20 or so members at the time, and now has over 900 members.
Why RJO? Talk to other jewelers about your problems.
Barton says that RJO has done such an amazing job. The most important aspect of joining the group is to connect with other jewelers so you can learn from each other’s challenges and problems. The connection is important but the buying is important also.
When Barton started, there were only 10-15 suppliers which are all gone now except for Barton. Barton remembers back to the original members when he joined over 50 years. Barton continues to work at 80 years old
Barton, who is 80 years and working the show by himself, feels he never works because he loves what he does. Starting many years ago in IA, the RJO members have been loyal and really love getting together as the largest buying group in the jewelry industry.
Barton says that many jewelers need help and RJO has done an amazing job in providing that help and resources.
