n today’s retail environment, where shopping is often done with a click of a button, Polacheck's Jewelers stands out by focusing on creating generational relationships rather than chasing quick sales. The luxury jewelry store, based in Calabasas, California, has built a reputation for its personalized and unforgettable customer experiences. From exclusive brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Cartier to a service-focused atmosphere, the store has become more of a destination than just a retail shop.
Brent Polacheck, the fourth-generation owner of the family business, emphasizes the importance of building long-term relationships with customers. “I’ve turned all my clients into friends,” he shares. Polacheck believes that a successful business isn't just about the immediate sale but about fostering loyalty and creating a community where customers feel valued and understood. This personalized approach has allowed Polacheck’s to maintain a consistent following, where clients return year after year, often bringing their families into the fold.
Polacheck’s strategy goes beyond just selling luxury products; it’s about crafting an experience that customers want to return to. The store is designed to be a social destination, especially on weekends. Clients can enjoy drinks, sushi, and a welcoming atmosphere while browsing luxury pieces. “If you're going to go spend your money somewhere, wouldn't it be in a great environment?” Polacheck asks. This environment makes customers feel at ease, turning their shopping experience into something much more memorable than the typical retail trip.
Building lasting relationships takes effort, and Polacheck’s goes the extra mile in making their clients feel special. Whether it's taking lunch with clients, organizing exclusive trips to Geneva for auctions, or offering personalized services like sending photos and wrapping gifts, Polacheck’s creates a high-touch experience. This personal touch extends beyond the transaction, as Polacheck focuses on curating a customer base within a 15-20 mile radius, carefully vetting potential buyers to ensure they become loyal, long-term customers. The idea is to build a community rather than just sell products.
Success in the luxury retail world also requires being alert to market changes and seizing opportunities before competitors do. Polacheck demonstrated this when he quickly secured a location in Topanga, California, to open a 3,500-square-foot Rolex boutique—one of only 20 in the U.S. This proactive approach has allowed the business to stay ahead of the curve, expanding its reach while maintaining its commitment to personalized service.
One of the keys to Polacheck's ongoing success is its careful selection of customers. With limited inventory, especially for high-demand luxury items, Polacheck’s ensures that each piece is sold to the right buyer. The team actively turns away resellers who might flip the watches for profit, focusing instead on finding clients who will value and cherish their purchases. This approach might mean fewer sales in the short term but results in stronger, longer-lasting customer relationships.
As Polacheck’s expands with new locations and continues to grow, the next generation of customers is already in sight. Brent Polacheck is preparing his own children to take over the business, and as he sees his clients’ children becoming the next wave of customers, it’s clear that the focus on building multi-generational relationships has paid off. “A lot of my customers are having their kids come in—that means we’re doing something right,” Polacheck says, underscoring the long-term success of his unique business model.