Erlanger, Ky. – After more than three decades at the helm, brothers and owners of Jewel-Craft Inc. Gary and Benet Wesdorp are passing the torch to their children: Nick, Stephanie, Ross, Jerah, Walker and Karlan.
They will be the fourth generation of the Wesdorp family to own the Kentucky-based company.The next generation is taking over under an agreement that was finalised at the end of 2022, but made retroactive to January 2022 and recently made public.
Although they are now officially retired, Gary and Benet say they will continue to offer their support. For Ross Wesdorp, Gary’s son, Jewel-Craft has been a part of his life since he was born.
“To take the next step and continue what my father, uncle, grandparents and great-grandfather built is an incredible honour,” said Ross. “We are very excited about the next steps and cannot put into words how much this means to us.”
Jewel-Craft is a full-service company that provides comprehensive jewellery services to retailers and shops nationwide. All stages of design, fabrication, repair and restoration are performed on site at its Kentucky location.
The company was originally founded in 1947 by Earl Wesdorp in the attic of his garage. In 1950, Earl’s son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Dot Wesdorp, joined him and solidified the company’s foundation.
Bob and Dot’s two sons, Gary and Benet, became an integral part of Jewel-Craft at an early age. The brothers were mentored by their parents throughout their teenage and young adult years, honing their skills and principles as craftsmen and leaders. In 1985 they were given ownership of the company.The company flourished under the leadership of Gary and Benet.
In 1990, the company moved to its current location in Erlanger, Kentucky. Under Gary and Benet’s leadership, the facility underwent significant expansion.Jewel-Craft eventually grew to employ 265 dedicated members, affectionately known as the “Pit Crew”. The company has been named RJO Vendor of the Year four times.
“This is a great time for the company and our family,” said Gary. “Jewel-Craft has grown in so many amazing ways and our family has grown with it. Our success is due to a lot of hard work and dedication. We also owe so much to our remarkable pit crew and our loyal customers”.
“Absolutely,” added Benet. “It’s incredible to see our children carrying on the family legacy. Passing the business on to them, just as we passed it on to them, is an indescribable feeling”.
The fourth generation of the Wesdorp family are deeply grateful for all that Gary and Benet have built over the years, the company said, and are excited to lead Jewel-Craft into the future.
Going forward, Jewel-Craft says it will continue to distinguish itself as the industry leader in repair and manufacturing, through its fantastic support and service, which it is always striving to improve.
