Top man at Ben Moss promises lots of birthday bling

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This article was published 29/04/2010 (5651 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Ben Moss Jewellers celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.

The history of the nationwide company, which was founded in Winnipeg in 1910, reads like a rags-to-riches story spanning three generations.

And the head honcho of the Manitoba-born jewelry empire says he’s already pumped up about the next century.

“We’re thrilled about our first 100 years and we’re already looking forward to the next 100,” said Brent Trepel, president and CEO of Ben Moss Jewellers.

In terms of the organization’s centennial celebrations, Trepel, who lives in River Heights, remains tight-lipped about something “really big” that is set to happen later this year.

“Lots of things will be happening for the consumer in the fall, but I can’t reveal any details right now. But I can say it will be a huge promotion, probably the largest in Canadian jewelry retailing history,” he said.

It’s also a double anniversary whammy for Trepel, who is celebrating 25 years in the family business.

Since 1986, under his stewardship, the company has grown from 18 to 63 stores across Canada, which total approximately 600 employees.

This modern-day development is a world away from the humble origins of the company.

Ben Moss was a 20-year-old immigrant from Romania, who opened a small family-run shop in Winnipeg North End in 1910.

“He had no aspirations apart from keeping a good reputation and a good name,” Trepel noted.

Moss’ son-in-law and Trepel’s father, Sid, took custody of the enterprise in 1959 and eventually expanded into the malls of the prairie provinces.

“He realized that shopping centers were being built and knew this was the way to go,” he said.

Trepel has since expanded the family brand from coast-to-coast.

“It’s rewarding to be part of an industry that surrounds celebrations such as anniversaries, births, wedding and birthdays. We get to help our customers select jewelry that helps them commemorate major life milestones.”

Economically, the River Heights resident also noted how the company managed to buck the downsizing trend of many businesses during the economic downturn of 2008-09.

“Last year, when one of the worst recessions was taking hold in much of the country, the company continued its growth with seven new locations across Canada, all of which showcase a new store design,” Trepel said.

In any era or economy, a 100-year-old business is significant milestone. So what been the secret of the company’s success?
“In a word — trust. We’ve worked very hard to create a strong, trustful brand,” he said.

“I believe our longevity is rooted in treating employees and customers with respect, having a merchandising team that designs and discovers unique jewelry pieces and having employees with a real passion for the business.”

Trepel also acknowledges the “loyal support” of patrons from communities across Winnipeg. 

“I know that many people from the River Heights area, for example, visit our store at Polo Park Shopping Centre, because it’s their nearest one,” Trepel said.

The company also has outlets at St. Vital Centre, Kildonan Place Shopping Centre and Garden City Shopping Centre.
For more information, visit www.benmoss.com.

simon.fuller@canstarnews.com