Hartman Jewellers, in operation in Elmira since 1927, will close at the end of the year, just short of its 100th anniversary. Co-owners Lisa Mulligan and Stephen Meyer attributed the decision to concerns over safety and peace of mind following recent incidents, including a break-in that placed financial and emotional strain on the business.
June Break-in and Arrests
On June 18, Hartman Jewellers experienced a break-and-enter incident that resulted in approximately £4,000 in damages and stolen merchandise. The break-in involved two suspects targeting the store’s display cases. Mulligan described the experience, saying, “[The suspect] violently went through it. Took some sterling silver bracelets, a couple of watches. I felt my stomach drop.”
Following an investigation by Waterloo Regional Police, two men were arrested in late August after police released images of the suspects. Both suspects, aged 52 and 46, were charged with break and enter to commit theft.
History of Security Challenges
This was the second serious security incident at Hartman Jewellers. The store had previously been targeted in an armed robbery in 2001, during which Meyer faced a dangerous encounter. “My husband had a gun to his head,” Mulligan recalled. “It was not pleasant. We lost $80,000 worth of merchandise.” Despite this incident, the owners continued to operate for another 20 years.
Reflecting on these events, Meyer noted, “We certainly weren’t in the position where we could quit at that point. We carried on for another 20 plus years. But now is the time to leave it.”
Decision to Close and Community Impact
Mulligan and Meyer’s decision to close Hartman Jewellers reflects careful consideration of their wellbeing and the business’s future. Meyer expressed disappointment at not reaching the business’s centennial, stating, “My grandfather started the business in 1927. It would have been great [to reach the 100th anniversary], but my wife and I had many conversations about our mental health.”
The store has begun a liquidation sale and expects to close by year-end. Community members, like long-time resident Bruce Reid, shared their thoughts: “I grew up in town here, so I’ve seen it for a long time. We did buy my wife’s rings here. I don’t like to see it happening, but I also understand the stress these people are under.”
Industry Insights: Balancing Tradition and Security
The closure of Hartman Jewellers illustrates a common challenge for independent jewellers: balancing long-standing community ties with evolving security demands. Small jewellery retailers may face heightened vulnerability to security incidents, which can impact both business and personal wellbeing. This case highlights the need for jewellers to evaluate security measures and insurance protections regularly.
Next Steps for the Owners
Mulligan and Meyer, who own the building housing the jewellery store and an apartment above it, are currently considering their options regarding the property’s future. They have not yet decided whether to sell or retain ownership as they plan their next steps.
For all of us in the industry, Hartman Jewellers’ closure is a reminder of the challenges that established businesses may face amid evolving security concerns and personal considerations.
