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The first CBG show of 2025, held in Orlando, Florida, brought together some of the finest minds and key players in the jewelry industry. From thought-provoking speeches to collaborative opportunities, the event served as a vibrant hub for both retailers and jewelry vendors alike.
This year’s January show carried a particularly momentous theme: honoring the legacy of Andie Weinman while exploring the future of CBG under new leadership.
Honoring Andie Weinman: The force behind CBG’s success
Andie Weinman’s journey is the heart of CBG’s story. Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, Andie’s family roots were in catalog show retail—a precursor to modern-day big-box stores. After her family sold their businesses, Andie found herself at a crossroads. Encouraged by her father’s vision, she co-founded CBG with a bold concept: to create a buying group where independent jewelers could collaborate and thrive in an industry dominated by large corporations.
The first CBG meeting, held over 42 years ago at the Barbizon Hotel in New York City, started with just 14 retailers and 30 vendors. Today, CBG has grown into a powerhouse, renowned for its unparalleled value to its over 100 retailers and vendors alike. Andie’s philosophy—treating members as family, maintaining independence from vendor kickbacks, and fostering fair competition—has set CBG apart from other groups.
Though Andie announced her semi-retirement last September, her influence remains strong. As CEO, she continues to guide the organization with her characteristic passion and dedication. “I want the office to keep getting bigger and better,” she shared. “We’re here to support independent jewelers and show them there’s no other organization quite like this.”
Joe Murphy: Leading CBG into a new era
As CBG transitions under the leadership of Joe Murphy, Andie’s husband and now president—or as the Instagram world knows him, Mocktail Joe—the organization is poised for change. During the breakfast event on the third and final day of the show, Joe outlined his vision for CBG’s future, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and collaboration.
Using the acronym “CHANGE,” Joe detailed the pillars of CBG’s strategy for 2025:
- Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships between retailers and suppliers within the CBG family.
- Horizons: Embracing new opportunities and staying ahead of industry shifts.
- Adaptability: Leveraging technology, such as AI, to meet the evolving needs of the market.
- New Leadership: Honoring Andie’s legacy while ushering in a fresh perspective.
- Growth: Expanding membership in untapped territories to strengthen CBG’s reach.
- Excellence: Maintaining CBG’s high standards by fostering innovation and collaboration.
Joe also announced exciting updates, including a move to a larger, state-of-the-art venue for the 2025 Vegas show and plans to incorporate more technical advancements, such as AI and manufacturing equipment, into future events. These changes reflect CBG’s commitment to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
This show was also its last in Orlando, with CBG giving a farewell to "Mickey Mouse” as they plan to move forward to Miami for future shows.
Clientbook: Partnering with jewelers for success
As a leader in client management and sales enablement, Clientbook is proud to align with CBG’s mission of empowering independent retailers. Joe’s emphasis on adaptability and collaboration mirrors the values at the core of Clientbook’s platform.
Clientbook’s AI-powered tools provide jewelers with actionable insights, enabling them to deliver personalized experiences and foster stronger client relationships. By helping retailers navigate industry changes—such as shifting consumer preferences and the growing importance of technology—Clientbook ensures they remain competitive in an ever-changing market.
Looking ahead
The CBG Jewelry Show in Orlando was a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and camaraderie that define the jewelry industry. With Andie Weinman’s enduring legacy and Joe Murphy’s forward-thinking leadership, CBG is set to continue its tradition of excellence.
As a proud CBG member and industry partner, Clientbook is honored to be part of this journey, working alongside CBG to support independent jewelers and drive the industry forward. Here’s to the exciting future ahead for CBG, its members, and the jewelry community at large.
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