Fred Meyer Jewelers Becomes the First National Jeweler to Feature the kathy ireland Jewelry Collection

PORTLAND, Ore., Nov. 2, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Starting today, Fred Meyer Jewelers will become the first national jeweler to offer the kathy ireland Jewelry Collection.  The popular line of bridal jewelry, diamond fashion and colored gemstone jewelry is designed by Kathy - once a supermodel, today one of the 50 most influential people in fashion - and will be available at nearly 400 Fred Meyer Jewelers and Littman Jewelers in 36 states, and online at www.FredMeyerJewelers.com and www.LittmanJewelers.com.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101102/LA93520)

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20101102/LA93520)

"The kathy ireland Jewelry Collection features captivating designs that are both stylish and timeless," said John Berglund, Group Vice President of Merchandising and Marketing for Fred Meyer Jewelers.  "There are a wide range of styles and price points available, and all fit perfectly with Fred Meyer Jewelers' commitment to being the jeweler of choice for all your special times."

kathy ireland Jewelry is a result of Nikhil and Ela Jhaveri of Elan Luxury Collections and kathy ireland Worldwide coming together as a fine jewelry solution. Kathy is CEO and chief designer of kathy ireland Worldwide® (kiWW®).  Her background in the fashion industry alerted her to products, images and prices that were unrealistic and didn't address people's needs and how they live.  With this in mind, Kathy developed her brand with the mission of "... finding solutions for families, especially busy moms."  Kathy's parallel mission is "...finding solutions for people in love."  Kathy is assisting brides and grooms with their special day in all areas from glorious bridal rings and gowns to beautiful wedding venues.  "It is great joy to know that our exquisite jewelry will now be available nationwide at Fred Meyer Jewelers and Littman Jewelers," said Kathy.  "From bridal to fashion, you'll find the finest designs, quality and value in our collection at these great stores, and online.  kathy ireland Jewelry at Fred Meyers – it's truly for all those special times," Kathy continued.

Forbes.com names Kathy one of the 20 Best-Branded Women on Twitter.  Forbes Magazine reports that kathy ireland Worldwide® (kiWW®) is a "design empire which grosses over 1.4 billion dollars annually in retail sales."  2010 License Global Magazine names kathy ireland Worldwide #28 most powerfully licensed brand globally.

Full selection of merchandise and Kathy Ireland photos available, contact [email protected].

About Fred Meyer Jewelers

Founded in 1973, Fred Meyer Jewelers is the nation's third-largest fine jewelry retailer operating nearly 400 jewelry stores in 36 states under the Fred Meyer Jewelers and Littman Jewelers brand names. The stores carry a broad assortment of engagement and wedding rings, fine jewelry for women and men, and brand-name watches. Fred Meyer Jewelers, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fred Meyer Stores, Inc., which was acquired in 1999 by The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), one of the nation's largest grocery retailers. For more information on Fred Meyer Jewelers, visit FredMeyerJewelers.com, Facebook.com/fredmeyerjeweler or follow them at Twitter.com/fmjeweler.

About kathy ireland Worldwide®

kathy ireland Worldwide® (kiWW®) is the design and marketing firm founded in 1993 by CEO and Chief Designer, Kathy Ireland.  The mission statement of kiWW® is "...finding solutions for families, especially busy moms."™

kiWW® turns to design experts in many areas, kiWW® Brand Solutions include A Cafe Society™ by Chef Andre which addresses cooking and entertaining and Jardin J du J™ by Nicholas Walker, which celebrates garden inspirations and the outdoor living experience.

kathy ireland Worldwide® products include furniture, flooring, lighting and accessories, window treatments, home office and entertainment, leather and microfiber, infant, youth and adult top of bed, bedding, candles, hand-painted fine porcelain, decorative shelving, jewelry, apparel, fresh-cut flowers, skin-care for men and women, wall coverings, ceiling fans, mattresses, totes, hand bags, travel bags, frames, wall decor, clocks, Design It Yourself jewelry and crafting supplies, kitchen and bath cabinetry, infant furniture, Ready to Assemble (RTA), decorative shelving, fine jewelry, wigs and hair extensions, real estate, vacation events, wedding program licenses, music and film licenses, publishing and greeting cards. Kathy serves as Chief Designer for Window World, America's largest home renovation company. Kathy is the author of six books: Powerful Inspirations: Eight Lessons that Will Change Your Life; Real Solutions for Busy Moms: Your Guide To Success and Sanity; Real Solutions for Busy Moms Devotional: 52-God Inspired Messages for Your Heart and children's books: What Do Mommies Do?; An Angel Called Hope and Mona's Favorite Words.

kiWW® maintains offices and design studios in Los Angeles, Rancho Mirage and Santa Barbara, CA, Hawaii and Israel. Additional information is available at kathyireland.com

SOURCE Fred Meyer Jewelers