The JBT said that 1,141 fewer firms went out of business, leaving a total of 25,667 businesses in operation.
In the first quarter of 2018, 343 US jewelry companies closed, including 241 retailers, 21 wholesalers and 26 manufacturers that ended operations for reasons other than financial failure. Some 45 businesses consolidated through mergers or acquisitions, and 10 companies shut down due to bankruptcy.
Just 62 new jewelry firms opened during the first quarter, including 45 retailers, nine wholesalers and eight manufacturers.
In Canada, 25 companies closed down for various reasons, while just two new businesses emerged.
