For 70 years, Ross-Simons has provided people across the nation with quality jewelry and luxury items at affordable prices. Mayor Ken Hopkins visited the company’s corporate office in Cranston on Dec. 14 to recognize the company for its recent milestone and offer an honorary key to the city.

The first Ross-Simons retail store opened in Providence in 1952 – followed by two more stores in 1965 and 1975 as the brand quickly grew. The company mailed its first catalog in 1981, and today, Ross-Simons is a thriving, multi-channel retailer with an online business.

“We are proud to have a longstanding business like Ross-Simons in our city and employing over 300 employees,” said Hopkins.

Ross-Simons President and CEO Jim Speltz accepted the mayor’s citation while the company’s original owner, Darrell Ross, was handed the key.

Over Hopkins’ last three years in office, only two other keys to the city have been awarded; Ross-Simons is the first Cranston business to receive one.

“Today by awarding such a prize, the City of Cranston officially, symbolically places the city at their [Ross-Simons’] disposal and may be considered one of the highest honors a non-military civilian may achieve,” Hopkins said.

The history of being given a key to the city can be traced to medieval times where cities were fortified by stone ramparts and locked gates. Providing someone with a key of entrance was of high honor and trust; it meant that person was granted unlimited access to open the city gates. The key is usually bestowed upon guests such as visiting dignitaries or persons of distinction. 

Speltz was thrilled to have Hopkins at the company for the special presentation. The mayor came during the company’s holiday celebration where individuals enjoyed food and had an ugly sweater contest with categories for first, second and third place along with most festive, most creative and the funniest.

Speltz said he is proud to be part of a brand that is recognized around the country and noted how rare it is to be awarded a key to the city. Since the company’s corporate office is located in Cranston, he said when products are distributed from the facility and bear Cranston’s name on the boxes. He said it’s a great way to represent the community.

“Thank you for the key to the city – this is incredible,” said Speltz.

The company officially celebrated its 70th anniversary in July. Hopkins added that Ross-Simons is one of the biggest companies in Cranston. The city works on collaborating with local businesses with the mayor mentioning the recent $300,000 that was handed out to small businesses through the Take it Outside program. Hopkins gave Ross-Simons his best wishes – adding that he hopes the company remains in the city for another 70 years.