RJO Summer Buying Show in Schaumburg Breaks All-Time Records with Nearly $24 Million in Purchases

Schaumburg, IL – July 28, 2025 – The Retail Jewelers Organization (RJO) is proud to announce the 2025 Summer Buying Show in Schaumburg, Illinois, was a record-shattering success. The event held July 25–28, generated nearly $24,000,000 in total purchases, the highest in RJO’s history for any Buying Show—surpassing the previous record by more than $600,000.

Themed “Shimmer and Shine in Schaumburg,” this year’s show brought together retailers, vendors, and families from across the country for four days of buying, education, and community. The show officially opened with the lively Kick Off Reception and Tower Display Night, where members enjoyed networking, food, and drinks while vendors competed for the best tower display. Global Liquidators took home the top honor in this friendly competition, setting the tone for a weekend filled with energy and collaboration.

A major highlight of the show was the debut of Gem Quest Kids Camp, RJO’s first-ever program designed exclusively for its youngest members. Through interactive games, gemstone activities, and creative jewelry projects, children had the chance to learn more about the artistry of jewelry while building friendships with other RJO families. The program reflects RJO’s commitment to fostering a multigenerational community and cultivating the next generation of jewelry enthusiasts.

Another crowd favorite was the return of the RJO Bench Jeweler Experience. Back by popular demand, this hands-on program allowed jewelers to engage directly with tools, techniques, and innovations in the craft. Demo booths sponsored by Gesswein and Stuller offered retailers the opportunity to test products, observe demonstrations, and gain valuable insights to take back to their stores. This interactive experience underscored RJO’s dedication to providing practical education that jewelers can put to work immediately.

Members and vendors also came together for RJO Foundation Game Night, an evening of camaraderie and fun that raised funds to support continuing education in the jewelry industry. The event combined entertainment with purpose, reinforcing the organization’s mission of giving back and investing in the future of its members.

“This summer’s event was a true reflection of the energy and growth within our membership,” said Sarah Streb, CEO of RJO. “Breaking records is exciting, but what matters most is how our members and vendors came together with such passion and commitment to support each other and the future of independent jewelers.”

Looking ahead, planning is already underway for the Winter Buying Show in Phoenix, Arizona, scheduled for February 20–23, 2026. The event will kick off with the return of the RJO Foundation Golf Tournament on Thursday, February 19, bringing members and vendors together for a fun-filled day in support of the Foundation. In addition, RJO is excited to launch new educational offerings, including the Owners Academy presented by Edge Retail Academy, which is a unique, in-depth program designed specifically for store owners.

“We are looking forward to once again gathering with the RJO family in Phoenix,” said Sabrina Smead, COO of RJO. “The new educational opportunities, along with member-favorite events like the Golf Tournament, will make the Winter Buying Show another incredible opportunity for our community to learn, grow, and celebrate together.”