Some of Alan M. Zimmer’s earliest memories are of sizing watch straps for customers to help his parents, who opened the first Reeds store in downtown Wilmington in 1946.
Since those early days, the business has grown remarkably, but Alan likes to imagine that it has successfully retained a family feel amongst its customers and employees.
Reeds has lots of exciting developments in the pipeline, and Alan says he is seeking to strengthen the business by working more closely with his Swiss watch brand partners.
“My father used to say that you meet the same people going up as you do going down, so be kind to everyone.”
By the end of this summer, Reeds will open two TAG Heuer boutiques, with “other mono-brand stores on the horizon”.
He also hopes to expand into new cities and further develop Reeds’ online store, which is the fastest-growing segment of the business.
Alan is also focused on bringing the third generation of the family into the business, with Mark Schreiber, Brittney Zimmer and Genna Zimmer helping to “take Reeds to new heights”.
Alan credits the success of Reeds, particularly with the backdrop of the pandemic, to his team. “I believe we’ve recruited and retained some of the best talent in the industry,” he says.
“Without a strong sales force and management, Reeds wouldn’t be thriving.”
Always keeping the wise words of his father in mind, Alan approaches his business with care and compassion.
“Always treat others the way you want to be treated, and be humble.” says the retailer, who is chairman of charity Jewelers for Children.
“My father used to say that you meet the same people going up as you do going down, so be kind to everyone.”
WATCHPRO USA HOT 100 SPONSORS
The WATCHPRO Hot 100 would not be possible without the generous support of these sponsors:
_______________________
_______________________
