The 1916 Company, formerly known as Govberg Jewelers — has appointed John Shmerler as its new CEO, marking a strategic leadership reshuffle in the wake of recent acquisitions and a branding overhaul, writes Garett Dvorkin for the Philadelphia Business Journal. 

Shmerler, hailing from his former role as CEO of Radcliffe Jewelers—a Baltimore firm that merged into the Govberg fold last year—brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to his new position at the helm of a jewelry and watch retail giant with over 20 locations nationwide. 

In Ardmore, Govberg plans to expand its current location to 7,500 square feet, effectively doubling its size.

His return to the Govberg family after an initial stint in the early 1990s is a full-circle moment for Shmerler, who now takes charge of a conglomerate poised for nationwide expansion under the unified 1916 brand—a tribute to the year Govberg Jewelers was established. 

Justin Reis transitions to Chairman from CEO, with Danny Govberg, the visionary behind Govberg Jewelers’ century-long legacy, continuing as Executive Chairman. 

The 1916 Company’s ambition extends beyond physical retail, aiming to leverage its online platform, WatchBox.  

Read more about the 1916 Company and its new leadership in the Philadelphia Business Journals.  

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