We have no hidden agenda .... we simply want to offer a forum for comments, ideas, feedback and information from anyone connected to the PPI cruise ship shopping program. The primary goal is to bring awareness to the Cruise Lines, who we are still convinced are unaware of the practices of the company that represents them. Another goal is to have the shopping program restructured so that it offers a fair distribution of business. All jewelry stores must be promoted for the entire inventory. The changes should be clear, immediate and lasting.
One merchant with multiple stores summed it up beautifully in an e-mail copied to us : "My company has enjoyed an equitable and mutually beneficial relationship with Carnival Cruise Lines on their "recommended shopping program" for 20 years. It is truly disheartening to see this once honorable relationship disintegrate to this state in the short time that PPI has been directing the shopping program."
Contracts were signed for last season and inventory was purchased based on the demands of the past. Mid season, unbeknownst to all, an agreement was made with DI to promote them exclusively for anywhere from 40-60% of most jewelry stores' inventory - tanzanite and diamonds. Isn't this a violation of every contract signed ?
Conservatively, when you consider the number of jewelry merchants on the PPI program (hundreds), then consider the dollar amount of investment in tanzanite and diamonds in each of those stores (millions), you are talking about hundreds of millions of dollars in a billion dollar industry. Is it possible that two companies (or are they one ?) can make a decision that affects and manipulates the businesses of thousands of wholesalers and merchants ? While everyone stands back and watches !
Ultimately the passengers and the reputation of the duty free industry and cruise lines will be hurt.
The far-reaching affects of this agreement are astounding!!! The past few months were only a taste of the results of this agreement .... the avalanche of disaster looms right around the corner in what has every other indication to be an optimistic season.
Aren't these practices illegal on Wall Street? The jewelry industry as a whole must maintain ethics and standards that cannot allow this to happen. Who and where are the watchdogs of the jewelry industry ?
Jeff