Issuu

Welcome to the Summer 2026 Digital Issue of National Pawnbroker Magazine, Sponsored By:

Meet the 2026 Anchor Sponsor Bluestone Trading Company Inc. In 1978, Bluestone Trading Company was born on the streets of Cleveland from the seat of RB Grampp Sr.’s Enduro motorcycle. It began with nothing more than a simple gold scale and a commitment to Midwestern values. As RB successfully transitioned his growing enterprise from precious metals into an international diamond wholesale operation, he recognized that true success required uplifting the entire industry. Driven by a fierce dedication to honesty, fair margins, and open partnership, RB didn’t just build a thriving business; he helped build a community. As a founding member of the National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA), he worked to ensure pawnbrokers always had a trusted advocate and partner in their corner. Today, Bluestone remains a trusted name, proudly led by the second generation: Ritchie, Morgann, Cody, and Kyle Grampp. Bluestone merges foundational values with modern innovation. Beyond traditional wholesale, Bluestone supplies pawnbrokers with estate jewelry,

loose

diamonds,

and

simply designed basics to keep your showcases profitable. Moving forward, the company remains dedicated

its

unwavering

support of the NPA, protecting the importance of family values and the honor of a simple handshake.

Discover how we can help grow your business at bluestone-trading.com.

CORE VALUES

You Can Count On

Success in Laredo & San Antonio!

We Start With the Hard Data

Stallcup Group facilitates the sale of 12 stores in Laredo and San Antonio!

To enter the ring and negotiate with a buyer and get the best price for your pawn business, you need your shop in its best shape.

As the Market Shifts, So Do We Stallcup Group knows how to keep your pawn shop marketable; staying on top of the shifts while maintaining flexibility that keeps the communication with buyers on equal footing.

Analysis and Results Driven Marketing Having a representative that understands the true value of your pawn shop and is aware of your own vested interests is critical. Using tangible, datadriven analysis with multiple buyers, Stallcup Group takes negotiation out of the selling/closing process and keeps the discussion favored on your side of the table.

We Represent You, The Owner Stallcup Group’s history started in the pawn industry. Having experienced both sides of the negotiation table, we understand how to use your knowledge as a pawn shop owner to fuel and optimize your selling power. January 2026 | Stallcup Group, Inc., an Exit Strategy Consulting

Steve Stallcup

steve@stallcupgroup.com

817.479.3880

stallcupgroup.com

firm, announced its successful facilitation of the sale of El Bufalo Pawn. El Bufalo Pawn is an independently-owned business comprised of twelve pawn shops located in Laredo and San Antonio. Stallcup Group served as the exclusive financial advisor to the seller in this highly successful transaction. Stallcup Group’s detailed examination of the seller’s financial data played a pivotal role in guaranteeing our client’s achievement of all their selling objectives.

I worked with the Stallcup Group in

Another Eight Pawnshops Sold! Stallcup Group facilitates the sale of eight stores in Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Utah!

the sale of my pawn business, and the experience was excellent from start to finish. Their deep industry knowledge, professionalism, and credibility were evident at every step of the process. They were instrumental in creating a clear, concise, and well-managed transaction that stayed on timeline and aligned with the outcome I set out to achieve. I genuinely appreciated their guidance, responsiveness, and steady leadership throughout the process. Anthony Twist - CEO TNT Pawn & Jewelry

For those in the pawn industry considering a sale, I wholeheartedly recommend consulting with Steve Stallcup at Stallcup Group. His expertise not only secured an unprecedented industry price for my business but also ensured a smooth transition to the new ownership, minimizing the impact on our staff and preserving the legacy we built over decades of hard work. Bob Moulton National Pawn and Jewelry, NC

December 2025 | Stallcup Group, Inc., an Exit Strategy Consulting firm, announced its successful facilitation of the sale of TNT Pawn & Jewelry. TNT Pawn & Jewelry is an independently-owned business comprised of eight pawnshops located in Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Utah. Stallcup Group served as the exclusive financial advisor to the seller in this highly successful transaction. Stallcup Group’s thorough analyses of the seller’s financial data, and the unique attributes and characteristics of both the company and individual store helped ensure their client achieved all of their selling goals.

FREE DOWNLOADS! Visit our website for our Sales Preparation Checklist and 5-Step C.A.R.E. Closing Process absolutely FREE!

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National Pawnbroker is the official publication of the National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) and is published quarterly. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of Kristen Williams, NPA Executive Director. Sale or distribution of any or all of the contents of this magazine is prohibited. All rights reserved. For more information on advertising or to obtain additional copies of National Pawnbroker, call 817-337-8830 or send an email to info@nationalpawnbrokers.org.

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NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

EDITOR’S NOTE:This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information on the subject matter covered. It is provided and disseminated with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal or other professional services. If legal advice is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. Expressed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ownership.

Letter from the President

Calendar of Events

Government Relations Update

FEATURE: Advocacy in Action Recapping the '26 Legislative Conference

Capital Club Members Listing

SPOTLIGHT ON: Pawn Keyholders

MEMBER VOICES: Why Advocacy Matters, Beth Anundi

Lead & Learn: Engaging with Law Enforcement

Pawn Shops Are Seeing Something The Stock Market Isn’t

Young Professionals Take DC

NPA Industry Partners

Welcome New Members

State Associations Updates

2, 3

Stallcup Group, Inc., Exit Strategy Consulting

Arch Crown Inc.

Burrell Printing

MIRC, LLC

8, 9

Box Brokers Group

VTron Lasers

12, 13 14 20, 21

Core Scientific United Precious Metal Refining, Inc. Yehuda Company

Padmavati Exports, Inc

Isaac Watches

Watch CSA

Bravo Store Systems

Gemological Institute of America, Inc. (GIA)

Mid-States Recycling & Refining, Inc.

JM Insurance Agency Partners, Inc.

19, 40

Bluestone Trading Company Inc.

SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

N PA L E A D E R S H I P T E A M

BILL DAWSON President

LISA LITTLE Vice President

DAVID EHRLICH Treasurer

JOHNNY WHITESIDE Immediate Past President

KERRY RAINEY Secretary

KRISTEN WILLIAMS Executive Director

LDPM, Inc. Morrisville, NC

Fieldstone Jewelry & Pawn Conyers, GA

Bayou Pawn Hammond, LA

Kendale Pawn Shop Sanford, NC

City Pawn Shop Montgomery, AL

National Pawnbrokers Association Victor, NY

Beth Anundi, Capital Pawn, Salem, OR

Perry Lewin, Decatur Jewelry & Pawn, Decatur, IL

Robert Barnett, Elk River Trading Co., Fayetteville, TN

Boyd Naylor, Bali Credit Corp, San Antonio, TX

Randi Butterfield, Big Dog Pawn, West Jordan, UT

Scott Paulsen, Peninsula Pawn, Seaford, DE

Tim Collier, Pacer, LTD., Little Rock, AR

Jeremy Powell, BJ Pawn & Gun, Denham Springs, LA

Jay Dunbar, Superior Pawn Company, Hampton, VA

Scott Tiemann, Central Mega Pawn, Ontario, CA

Tara Kaminsky, EZ Pawn, New York, NY

Anthony Vanegas, Sunbelt Pawn, Houston, TX

RETAIL READY

Guitars

www mircweb com paw .

Wide Selection | Top Brands | Great Margins At MIRC, every instrument we sell is retail ready —meaning it’s been professionally refurbished if needed, fully inspected, and properly set up by our expert technicians. Our guitars arrive ready to go, so you can put them directly on the shelf and into your customers’ hands with confidence. No additional repairs or adjustments required. Just quality instruments that are ready to play. “On any given day we have 40 or more guitars on the wall. Presently the oldest established business relationship I have."

-Charles Fouche, Beach Pawn

Thousands In Stock New Inventory Daily Easy Online Ordering

MIRC, LLC | 1620 Corporate Place, La Vergne TN | 800-573-9865 | www.mircweb.com | info@mircweb.com

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Why Your Vendor Relationships Matter had to decide who I was going to buy it from.

Dear Fellow Pawnbrokers, As President of the National Pawnbrokers Association and as Managing Partner of a 7-store pawn operation in North Carolina, I view our industry from multiple perspectives. I am proud to represent the NPA and the hardworking business owners who make our association strong. I am also keenly aware of the critical role industry partners play in the success of our association and our profession. Like many of you, I make important financial decisions every day. This week I committed to replacing our 18-year-old laser welder. (Did you know they cost a lot more than they did 18 years ago?!) That piece of equipment is essential to the continued operation and growth of our business, so after careful consideration, I determined it was a necessary investment. Once I decided to make the purchase, I

Another important factor to me was to use a vendor that was an active supporter and member of the National Pawnbrokers Association. I know the people behind the business. I trust their reputation. Knowledge, I reinforced by speaking with several friends made through my NPA association over these many years. I purchased that machine 18 years ago from a vendor at Pawn Expo. That vendor has not been at the Expo for several years. The vendor I decided to buy from this time has been at the Expo and will be there this year. That matters. As business owners, we all have choices about where we spend our money. We evaluate quality, service, price, and reliability. But I believe there is another factor worth considering: Does the company invest in the success of our industry? Vendors who support the NPA through membership, sponsorship, Expo attendance/exhibition, as well as other forms of participation reinforce our association's mission to advocate, educate, promote and protect the future of pawnbroking. As we are preparing for another outstanding Pawn Expo in Las Vegas, I encourage every attendee to keep in mind while walking the trade show floor, the vendors and industry partners exhibiting at Pawn Expo have made a commitment in both time and

By choosing to do business with companies that invest in the NPA and our industry, we create a stronger ecosystem that benefits all of us.

money to support our association. That support ensures the future of the pawn business. I encourage you to support those who support us. By choosing to do business with companies that invest in the NPA and our industry, we create a stronger ecosystem that benefits all of us. The relationships formed between pawnbrokers and industry partners are among the greatest strengths of our association. I look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas and to a successful Pawn Expo. Thank you for your continued support of the NPA and for helping us build a stronger future for the pawn industry.

Bill Dawson, NPA President

SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

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CA L E N DA R O F E V E N TS

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INDUSTRY EVENTS The pawn industry has a busy season ahead, with several key events bringing together pawn industry experts, suppliers, and thought leaders from across

JULY

PAWN EXPO 2026 LAS VEGAS, NV

the country. Want to list your event? digital@nationalpawnbrokers.org

SEP

2026 NPA Anchor Sponsor

OCT

02 ALL EVENTS

OCT

DIXIE PAWNBROKERS EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE AND TRADE SHOW ORANGE BEACH, AL

CAPA 70TH ANNUAL CONVENTION AND EXPOSITION SAN DIEGO, CA

NPA FALL 2026 BOARD MEETING GRAPEVINE, TX

SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

Core Scientific specializes in refining gold, silver, platinum, and palladium with precision. Our advanced process removes uncertainty, allowing us to offer top payouts. We uniquely provide a secure 24/7 customer portal, giving full transparency and a clear chain of custody for your metals.

PROBLEMS WE SOLVE

UNIQUE SOLUTIONS WE OFFER

At Core Scientific Precious Metals Refinery, we solve the biggest challenges in precious metal refining: lack of transparency, inconsistent payouts, slow turnaround times, and complicated logistics.

Core Scientific stands apart by combining precision, transparency, and control in a way no other refiner does.

Many refiners leave customers guessing about value and process. We eliminate that uncertainty with precise in-house analysis and a secure customer portal that provides 24/7 visibility into your materials and their chain of custody. We also simplify operations; handling shipping, streamlining pickups, and delivering fast, reliable payments so you can stay focused on your business. The result is a refining experience that is transparent, efficient, and built to help you recover the maximum value from your precious metals.

Our fully in-house refining process eliminates thirdparty handling, ensuring greater accuracy, faster turnaround, and consistently higher payouts. We’re the only refiner offering a secure, 24/7 customer portal that gives you real-time visibility into your materials, from receipt through final settlement, so you always know exactly where your metals are and what they’re worth. Beyond technology, we simplify the entire experience with streamlined logistics, insured shipping, and responsive support. The result is a refining partner that delivers unmatched trust, speed, and value, giving you complete confidence in every transaction.

PRODUCTS WE OFFER Core Scientific offers a focused suite of refining and recovery solutions designed to maximize the value of your precious metals. Our Precious Metals Refining Service processes gold, silver, platinum, and palladium scrap using precise, in-house analysis to deliver accurate results and top payouts. Our Secure Customer Portal provides 24/7 access to your account, giving real-time visibility into shipments, assay results, and payments with a complete chain of custody. Our Logistics & Recovery Solutions streamline the process with insured shipping, coordinated pickups, and efficient material handling. Together, these solutions create a seamless, transparent refining experience that helps you recover more value with less effort.

Great communication and flawless experience with Core Scientific from metal scrap shipping to processing to very prompt payment. I highly recommend them...” — Kabil C.

Core Scientific | Info@Core-Scientific.com | Core-Scientific.com | 877-308-2388 SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

G O V E R N M E N T R E L AT I O N S U P D AT E

LISA LITTLE

6 Things You Can Do This Election Year

NPA Vice President and Government Relations Chair

Pawnbrokers understand opportunity. We see it in a piece of jewelry someone brings through the door, on a slow Tuesday that turns into a record week. Election years work the same way. They create openings that simply do not exist the rest of the time, and the pawnbrokers who recognize that have a real advantage. Nobody is better positioned to represent this industry than the people who actually run these businesses every day. We know our customers, our communities, and our compliance requirements better than anyone or policy paper ever could. The question is not whether pawnbrokers belong in the room with policymakers. The question is whether we show up before we are needed. And right now, the access is there. Candidates are out in the community. Legislators are back home. There are very few moments in a political cycle when a small business owner can walk into a room, shake a candidate’s hand, and have a real conversation. Election year is one of them. Fundraisers, town halls, chamber breakfasts, county fairs, and candidate forums are happening in every district in the country. These are not just political events. They are open doors. Issues affecting our industry do not always arrive with the word “pawn” in the title either. Precious metals, secondhand goods,

organized retail crime, data privacy, banking, consumer finance, and law enforcement reporting can all affect how we operate. The NPA Government Relations Committee monitors these issues year-round, but national monitoring does not replace local relationships. Six Things Every Pawnbroker Can Do This Election Year 1. Find out who represents your store and your home at the state and federal level.

Election years are noisy ... Underneath all of that noise is a real opportunity for our industry.

2. Learn who is running for those seats this year. 3. Attend one fundraiser, town hall, candidate forum, or chamber event. 4. Introduce yourself to one legislative staff member. 5. Invite one elected official or candidate to tour your store. 6. Support your state association and NPA government relations efforts. None of these steps require you to be a political expert. They require you to show up. When you invite a policymaker into your store, show them the real business. Let them see your recordkeeping. Explain how collateral is handled. Walk them through customer disclosures, law enforcement reporting, and the difference between pawn and debtbased lending. Share what your customers are actually dealing with.

Help them understand that pawn is not a theory in a policy paper. It is a real service provided by real businesses in real communities. The work of government relations does not begin when a bad bill is filed. It begins long before that, one conversation at a time. Election years are noisy. There will be plenty of ads, mailers, and political arguments. Underneath all of that noise is a real opportunity for our industry. We can sit back and wait for policymakers to form their own opinions about pawn. Or we can step forward and help shape them. Do not waste an election year.

SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

2026

NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION PRESENTS

LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE

First-Hand Accounts from Those Who Attended the 2026 Legislative Conference in Washington, DC Thank you to all who attended the 2026 Legislative Conference. The impact made in a single day is incredible: 60 pawnbrokers, 110 appointments with federal lawmakers, numerous packets dropped off at 20 other Congressional offices, and critical conversations about the Payment Choice Act to ensure fair access to cash under $500. This work is critical for the people you do business with every day. NPA Executive Director, Kristen Williams, said it best during the Legislative Conference post-Hill reception: “We are here today to overcome that old industry perception. We want to show that the individuals who form this community are qualified, ethical pawnbroking professionals doing business the right way. We at the NPA are projecting that message 24/7, 365 days a year.”

GOLD SPONSOR

“We actually got to see two of our representatives face-to-face. One of them is actually a customer in our store.” – Trip Howland, Jery’s Pawn (NC) 16

NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

“This is my first time at Capitol Hill and it was a fantastic visit. We had a lot of fun. We met with some Congresswomen and it was one of those experiences that you don’t ever know what you’re going to get. But it was such a refreshing take from everyone to see how they see our business and how willing they are to help and be there in case we need them. It was a good trip, I learned a lot, and I met some really interesting people. I can’t wait to come back next year and probably bring some other folks with me.” — Stephanie Arenas, Oro Star, LLC (FL)

“My last appointment was with my representative from Illinois, and she actually recognized me from last year. I told her, ‘We don’t have an ask.’ She came over to me, rubbed my head, and said, ‘You should have a halo on your head because there’s no ask. You’re the first constituent to do that.’” — Perry Lewin, Decatur Jewelry and Pawn (IL)

“This trip was incredibly informative. I’ve never been around so many hardworking people in one place before. It was an awesome opportunity to meet Rep. Torres this morning, as well as so many other people on Capitol Hill who make decisions for us every single day.” — Oscar Izaguirre, Oscar Stone Corp (NY)

SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

“Before the end of our appointments with both a senator and a congressman, both of them gave me the direct contact information for their scheduling departments so we could arrange to have the members come visit our stores.” — David Ehrlich, City Pawn Shop (AL) “This has been a rewarding experience ... the opportunity to speak with people was important because what we do matters, and the more we put it out there, the better we’ll all do.” — Mary-Kathryn Fuller, Chesapeake Square Pawn (VA) “We had a blast talking to my Congressman. He even said, ‘Hand me that gavel, let me show you something.’ It was a gavel presented to him by Ducks Unlimited, and when he rolled it over, the other end was a duck call. That was a lot of fun.” — Tim Collier, Pacer, LTD (AR)

Want more? Check out the Young Professionals coverage of this event on page 32.

NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

Coming from Colombia, entering the Capitol and seeing how accessible it is made me think, ‘Wow.’ Thank you for making this happen and opening our eyes to what we take for granted. Going in there and talking to the people who write legislation that affects us— and seeing how human they are—is incredible. Kudos to everyone.” — Carlos Gil, Queen of Pawns (FL)

“[We] sat for 45 minutes, and it got to the point where they were genuinely interested and asking a million questions about what we do and who we see. It wasn’t just a scripted conversation; it got really comfortable. My second meeting was with someone in my actual district, and I’m probably 95% sure I can get him to do a store tour. He’s a really great guy. It was a highly entertaining and great experience.” — Steven Adsit, Mister Money (CO)

“The first person we talked to, we told them we didn’t have an ask. He replied, ‘You’re our favorite people today!’” — Johnny Whiteside, Kendale Pawn Shop (NC)

Bluestone Trading has been a trusted source for diamonds, gemstones, and jewelry since 1978. Our focus is building long-term relationships and helping stores grow their business. Pawn stores utilize our knowledge and same day payments to buy virtually everything that comes through their door without tying up their own cashflow.

PROBLEMS WE SOLVE Bluestone Trading creates cash flow and sales for our clients. Need to quickly turn your diamond and jewelry inventory into cash? Call us. Before you scrap that unique piece, let us make you a premium offer. We even offer quotes over the phone. Instant Cash: Sell your inventory directly to us. Maximize Profits: Sell unique or valuable pieces to us before scrapping them. Sell Before You Buy: Get pre-purchase offers on incoming items. Expand Your Inventory: Consign with us to offer a wider selection of diamonds, modern jewelry, and estate pieces.

UNIQUE SOLUTIONS WE OFFER Bluestone Trading’s founding principles and values are what set us apart. We are a midwestern company with midwestern values and believe in building long-term relationships with our clients. We have been actively involved in the NPA since the beginning and understand the ins and outs of working with pawn shops. With our international presence and global client list, we know where the demand is—and can pay strong premiums—for your items. We also offer helpful tools on our website, such as a Carat Weight Estimator, Virtual Clarity Grading Book, and a convenient “Sell To Us” option.

Customer Satisfaction: Never turn away a jewelry customer again!

One of the most trusted names in the jewelry business! If you are looking to buy or sell... Bluestone is the place to shop.”

Bluestone Trading | Bluestone-Trading.com | Hello@Bluestone-Trading.com | 440-442-7280 SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

THE CAPITOL CLUB

Introducing the Inaugural Members of The Capitol Club Through participation, these generous NPA members are helping to strengthen our collective voice, empower their peers, and move the industry forward.

FOUNDERS COUNCIL

Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers Capital Pawn Empire Collateral Loan Co., Inc EZ Pawn Corp. Pawn USA Gold & Jewelry Exchange LDPM, Inc.

Dynasty Jewelry and Loan, LTD Fieldstone Jewelry & Pawn

HILL CHAMPION

LEGISLATIVE LEADER

Paradise Pawnbrokers Inc Tom’s Pawn Central Alan’s Jewelry & Pawn

PAWN KEYHOLDER

NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

Howard’s Jewelry Center Jery’s Pawn Pacer, Ltd. Peninsula Pawn Walt’s Pawn & Jewelry Buyer Inc.

Fieldstone Jewelry & Pawn Dynasty Jewelry & Loan Since 1993, Dynasty Jewelry & Loan has served Georgia communities and the pawn industry as a longtime industry advocate and loyal NPA member. Ben Levinson served as an NPA Board Member for many years, to include service as NPA President. Today, both Ben and his son Joel are actively engaged at the NPA and their support is greatly appreciated.

An NPA member since 2014, Fieldstone Jewelry & Pawn serves Georgia communities and the industry through their dedicated participation in the NPA Capitol Club. Lisa Little has been an active Board Member since 2021 and is currently serving as Government Relations Chair and NPA Vice President.

We buy all types of fine watches and jewelry for top dollar! With many years of experience buying and selling to a wide range of national and international markets, we are able to offer top payouts to our sellers. PROBLEMS WE SOLVE

UNIQUE SOLUTIONS WE OFFER

We help our clients buy and loan against a large variety of watches and jewelry. We advise many stores on market values and guarantee loans with standing offers. We respond quickly and with transparency to provide fast and fair offers on almost any brand in the market.

We offer fair and fast offers on almost every brand and model of fine watches and on a wide variety of jewelry.

PRODUCTS WE OFFER We buy a lot of Audemars, Breitling, Cartier, Franck Muller, Hublot, IWC, Jacob & Co, Panerai, Patek Philippe, Richard Mille, and Rolex watches (among many others).

You need a guy who steps up with solid offers every time. That’s [Isaac] Watches.” – Vito, Granters Pawn & Founder, PHP

Isaac Watches and Jewelry | IML313@gmail.com | 617-997-5379 24

NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

Why Advocacy Matters: Showing Up for the Future of Pawn By Beth Anundi, Capital Pawn & Couture

There are moments in this industry that clarify exactly why advocacy matters. Recently, Adam and I, on behalf of Oregon pawnbrokers, spent a full day on Capitol Hill, moving from office to office, meeting with legislators and their staff to explain what we do as pawnbrokers and why it matters. It was a full schedule—constant movement, meaningful conversations, and the kind of work that requires both clarity and confidence. What stood out most was how open those conversations were. The staffers we met had genuine questions. They wanted to understand how pawn works, how we serve our communities, and, even without a clear request, they wanted to understand how proposed legislation could impact both our businesses and our customers. In most cases, we were the first pawnbrokers they had ever spoken with. That reinforces an important reality: if we are not present, our industry is being defined without us. Advocacy at both the national and state level is essential. As you are aware, pawn is highly regulated and often misunderstood, which means legislation can be introduced without a clear understanding of how our businesses actually operate. When that happens, the impact is immediate and tangible. In Oregon, we have seen what effective advocacy can accomplish.

Through the Oregon Pawnbrokers Association, we have built consistent relationships with legislators and regulators. Those relationships have allowed us to be part of conversations early— before decisions are finalized—and to provide real-world insight into how proposed changes affect both businesses and customers. That work has helped protect our ability to operate responsibly and has ensured that our industry is represented accurately when it matters most. At the state level, associations are often the first to identify and respond to legislative activity. They monitor changes, communicate with members, and engage directly with decision-makers. Their work ensures that policies are practical, informed, and workable. At the national level, the National Pawnbrokers Association provides a unified voice. It creates access and coordination that no single business could achieve independently. When discussions are happening in Washington, D.C., that unified presence ensures pawn is represented with consistency and credibility. Advocacy is not only about responding to challenges. It is about building relationships over time. When we consistently show up— within our communities, at the state level, and nationally—we become a known resource. Legislators and their teams begin to understand who we are, how we operate, and the role we play in the financial ecosystem. That familiarity creates

an opportunity for dialogue before decisions are made, not after. The strength of our industry is directly tied to our level of engagement. Joining your state association and the National Pawnbrokers Association is one of the most effective ways to support that engagement. These organizations carry out the day-to-day work of advocacy, but their impact is driven by the strength of their membership. Participation is not just beneficial—it is necessary. The same principle that applies in our communities applies here: when people understand what we do, they are far more likely to support it. Advocacy ensures that understanding exists at every level. And, let’s be honest, hanging out with other pawnbrokers who are doing the same things you are doing, is an absolutely unparalleled experience. We’d love to see you working with us at the state and national levels! SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

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Engaging with Law Enforcement &

Protecting Your Rights

Highlights from a Recent NPA Lead & Learn Session In a recent NPA Lead & Learn session, veteran pawnbrokers Nathan DeChairo (26 years in the industry) and Steven Adsit (25 years in the industry), who together run the Colorado Pawnbrokers Association, shared practical strategies for managing relationships with local law enforcement and prosecutors. The session focused on moving pawn shops from a defensive posture to a proactive partnership with police, grounded in legal literacy and operational diligence.

1. Constitutional Foundations & Landmark Case Law Understanding your rights is not about being adversarial; it is the foundation for fair professional interaction. Under the Fourteenth Amendment, pawn shops are recognized as legitimate businesses entitled to due process and equal protection under the law. When an officer requests to confiscate an item under flimsy circumstances, pawnbrokers have a clear legal standing to request a warrant or insist that property be held safely as evidence until a court determines rightful ownership. The hosts highlighted five landmark cases that every pawnbroker and manager should know: • Rasner v. Federal Collateral & Fuentes v. Shevin: These cases confirm the pawn industry’s legitimate business standing and cement its right to due process. • S&S Pawn Shop v. City of Del City: This ruling struck down municipal codes that allowed officers to seize suspected stolen property without a warrant, reinforcing a pawn shop’s property rights. • U.S. v. Lefkowitz: A Supreme Court case ruling that wide-sweeping, exploratory searches without a specific warrant are unconstitutional. This helps limit police “fishing expeditions” on business premises or through digital reporting platforms. • G&G Jewelry v. City of Oakland: This case established that law enforcement cannot unilaterally seize an item and hand it over to a third-party victim; items must be held securely in evidence until a formal court determination.

• Operational Note on the Plain View Doctrine: Law enforcement has the right to seize evidence without a warrant if it is clearly visible while they are lawfully present on your sales floor. To protect your inventory, keep officers in public areas and bring requested items out to them rather than automatically inviting them into secure back rooms.

2. Challenging Industry Misconceptions with Data A primary hurdle in police relations is the persistent myth that pawn shops are primarily conduits for stolen goods. Pawnbrokers can change this narrative by presenting verified data during meetings: • National Metrics: National Pawnbrokers Association data establishes that only one-tenth of 1% (0.1%) of pawn inventory nationwide ever turns out to be stolen merchandise. • Local Data: DeChairo and Adsit tracked their own data in Colorado and discovered their rate was even lower: only 0.0001% of items—roughly 1 out of every 10,000 items taken in—are ever subject to law enforcement investigation. • High Redemption Rates: Sharing that your store has an 85% loan redemption rate fundamentally reshapes how officers view your customer base. It shows they are responsible community members who rely on pawn loans for short-term cash and consistently return to reclaim their personal property.

3. Proactive Collaboration: Setting Up the Law Enforcement Meeting Do not wait for a high-stress, disputed confiscation to introduce yourself to local police leadership. Reach out to a pawn detective, lieutenant, or chief during a calm period to align on shared objectives. Frame the meeting around three mutual goals: 1. Prosecuting the actual criminal perpetrator. 2. Returning the property to its rightful owner via a lawful court process. 3. Recognizing the pawnbroker as a victim of fraud who has been financially defrauded. (continued on next page) SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

Lead & Learn: Engaging with Law Enforcement (continued from page 27)

4. Operational Diligence & Discretionary Tools When an officer arrives to place a hold or pick up an item, your staff must confidently execute a standard, nonconfrontational protocol: Distinguishing Civil vs. Criminal Matters Train your team to ask key context questions when an item is flagged: • Do the alleged victim and the suspect know each other? • Are they related, or are they roommates? • Does the issue stem from a soured rental agreement or a payment dispute?

5. Escalation & Community Action

If the answer to these questions is yes, it is likely a civil matter (such as a family dispute or breach of contract), meaning it is not an issue for police to resolve through property seizure.

If your shop encounters systematic pushback, dismissive attitudes, or outright violations of due process from local officers who refuse to cooperate, you have options:

Handling Rent-to-Own (RTO) Items

• In-Store Escalation: Instruct your front-line staff to remain calm, firm, and entirely professional. If an officer becomes hostile or threatens a warrantless seizure without probable cause, immediately request a field supervisor.

Under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), businesses that accept credit cards, bad checks, or lease agreements assume the initial transaction risk. A pawn shop acting as a good-faith purchaser generally holds good title against a wrongdoer unless the RTO company has formally filed a UCC lien on the merchandise. While law enforcement may try to act as a collection agency for private RTO businesses, remember your rights, use a written objection notice, and verify state-specific lien statutes. Keeping Bulletproof Records To maximize prosecution success and protect your store, implement these best practices: • Jewelry Photography: Take clear photos of every piece of jewelry taken in to assist detectives with immediate, accurate visual verification. • 3D Barcode Scanners: Eradicate human error by scanning electronics serial numbers directly into your point-of-pawn software to ensure database accuracy for systems like LeadsOnline. • The Documentation Trail: Never allow an item to leave without a fully completed police intake form. Ensure the jurisdiction, officer details, alleged perpetrator info, and case numbers are fully mapped out. Keep a dedicated spreadsheet log to review case statuses and track court dates monthly. 28

SPRING 2025 NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

• The “Nuclear Option” (1983 Action): If a department refuses to meet or systematically disregards your property rights, legal steps can be taken for constitutional violations. This forces city attorneys to step in, look at the legal precedents, and bring the police department to the negotiating table with an understanding that they must follow settled law. • Join Local ORCAs: Build broader community trust by joining your regional Organized Retail Crime Association (ORCA). Showing up to these monthly meetings alongside law enforcement and big-box retail asset protection teams humanizes your business, shatters old negative stereotypes, and establishes your pawn shop as an active partner in fighting crime.

This information is intended to serve as a reference guide; however, it may not encompass all information applicable to your organization; state/local laws and statutes may vary. This article is not intended as legal advice. Always consult with a professional for specific guidance.

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Pawn Shops are Seeing Something the Stock Market Isn’t

Source: Mark Ockerbloom, Boston 25 News and Christine Swartz

Forget the stock market—some of the earliest warning signs of a shaky economy may be showing up in an unexpected place: local pawn shops. As more people look for quick ways to cover everyday expenses, these businesses are seeing changes that reflect broader financial pressures. At Empire Loan in Stoughton, customers regularly walk in with personal items—often jewelry—and leave with cash in hand. CEO Michael Goldstein, who has spent four decades in the industry, tells Boston 25 that recent patterns stand out.

Many of those customers aren’t heavily invested in the stock market or retirement accounts. “My customer isn’t the guy walking into the Ritz-Carlton,” Goldstein added. “He’s the guy holding the door.”

“We are definitely seeing more suburban customers coming in than we have in the past,” Goldstein said, noting a shift in the store’s typical clientele. He says he’s also seeing more women than men using pawn services.

Financial experts say these trends align with broader shifts in consumer behavior. “Pawn shops have been a darling of Wall Street for about the last 18 months,” pointed out Bruce McKinnon, an entrepreneurship professor at Lasell University.

Rather than selling items outright, many customers are opting for short-term loans, using their valuables as collateral and returning later to reclaim them. According to Goldstein, about 90% of customers buy back their items. “These customers are working,” he explained. “They just have too much week left at the end of their paycheck. Then a bill comes up, and they need a way to bridge that gap.” For customers, the appeal is simple: quick access to cash without long-term commitment. “I appreciate getting a few dollars when I need it,” one customer said, describing the convenience of pawning jewelry temporarily. Goldstein believes pawn shops offer a unique window into economic conditions—sometimes even earlier than traditional indicators. “Think of us as a canary in the coal mine,” he said. “When gas prices go up, or unemployment ticks up, our customers feel it first.”

He notes that consumers are shopping differently overall — visiting more stores each year, chasing discounts, and relying on apps to stretch their budgets. Store-brand purchases are also on the rise, reflecting a growing focus on value. “All of these are strong signals that the consumer economy is getting a little more brittle, a little more fragile,” McKinnon said. Back at Empire Loan, Goldstein and his team are closely watching another key factor: the price of gold and silver. With both currently high, the shop can offer more money for items like jewelry and even silverware, helping customers cover short-term financial needs. “It’s not the pawn shop you see in old movies,” Goldstein said. “And it’s not even what you see on TV today.” SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS TAKE

NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

The future of the pawn industry was on full display at the 2026 NPA Legislative Conference, which welcomed 22 pawnbrokers under the age of 40 — including eight first-timers!

The Young Professionals (YPs) kicked off the event with a special welcome dinner generously sponsored by GIA. New and returning attendees connected, shared insights, and raised their glasses to ‘the best industry there is.’ It was a night of great food, camaraderie, and fun as the group built momentum before taking their message to Capitol Hill. Second-year attendee Byron Horton captured the sentiment perfectly: “I really enjoyed my experience, from the Young Professionals dinner to actually walking on Capitol Hill. It's great coming together with other people in the industry... Gaining a wealth of knowledge from all across the country. I think it is a great experience and important for the future of the Pawn industry.”

A huge thanks to GIA for their continued sponsorship of the NPA Young Professionals and for helping empower the next generation of pawn industry advocates.

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Arizona

Neal Yukolis, Arizona State Contact Nothing much new in Arizona except that everyone should be aware of the ongoing smash-and-grab crime sprees. Recently, in Glendale, a member foiled an attempted smash-and-grab involving five guys wearing hoodies and masks. Two staff members were bear-sprayed in the face; one suspect came in with spray, another with a big hammer, and three more followed seconds later to grab the loot. The attempt was stopped when an employee, feeling physically threatened and not wanting to be bear-sprayed, drew his weapon—not suggesting this approach, but it caused the suspects to flee empty-handed. Since the start of the year, two Cash Americas and one EZCorp store have been hit by smash-andgrab incidents, with one case involving robbers brandishing weapons. Careful out there, Pawnbrokers.

Colorado

Steven Adsit, President, Colorado Pawnbrokers Association The Colorado Pawnbrokers Association continues working to connect shops across Colorado through our completely free statewide network. By staying organized and engaged, we can better share information, respond to challenges, and support one another as our industry evolves. Colorado pawnbrokers — please continue spreading the word and encouraging nearby shops to get involved. For information or to join: coloradopawnbrokers@gmail.com

Hawaii

Richard Dan, Vice President, Hawaii Pawnbrokers Association Aloha everyone! This is Richard Dan, reaching out with a quick update from the Hawaii Pawnbrokers Association. No legislative updates of consequence. We have a board meeting in June. Pawnbrokers in our state have been making a difference by supporting schools through musical instrument donations and child-focused events. We are just coming out of a big disaster here, so no new programs are being offered this year. Finally, I'd like to recognize pawnbroker John Spiker, who's been a protector of the industry for over four decades.

Mississippi

Brian Smith, Mississippi Pawnbrokers Association Your Mississippi Pawnbrokers Association has been busy this year. Of course The Dixie Pawnbrokers Convention is coming

in September to the beaches of Orange Beach, Alabama. This is one of the premier events for pawnbrokers from all over the country. The event is held after Labor Day weekend so many make a holiday out of it and bring the family to the beach then write the whole thing off!! Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. No new legislation was passed this year which is always a win. We did introduce two bills this year one eliminating NMLS licensing requirements and another reducing the hold time on purchases of bullion to three business days. These bills were well received but hit a block on the floor and were not successful but we are still working and hope for a better result next year. As a compromise, we introduced an NMLS licensing training video which will hopefully help with the overburdening licensing procedures we deal with. That video is available to our members on our website. We are starting The Mississippi Pawnbroker Magazine this summer as a new member benefit. This new publication will be mailed to every Mississippi pawnbroker and advertisers. If you would like to advertise contact Chris Baker at Chrisno39@yahoo.com. USA Pawn was recognized for their support of the Warriors Cottages and the Mississippi Children’s Advocy Center this year for donating over $90,000 to these two fine organizations. Warrior Cottages provides US military veterans with temporary homes during their transition to civilian life, and Mississippi Children’s Advocacy Center helps children in abusive relationships gain safety and confidence to move (continued on next page) SUMMER 2026 | NATIONALPAWNBROKERS.ORG

State Associations (continued from page 37) forward with their lives. Kevin Riley of Dad’s Super Pawn was also recognized for his continued support of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

notifying local officials whenever transient gold buyers post schedules for their upcoming events and will be in their jurisdiction. On a positive note, we are pleased to welcome two new Tennessee Pawnbroker Licensees: Dan Jenkins of Harriman and Brian McNeese of Lewisburg. As they build their operations, TNPA members have been eager to offer guidance, fixtures, and even start-up inventory. We look forward to watching their businesses grow and serve their communities.

Texas

Tammi Springett, Managing Director, Texas Association of Pawnbrokers Save the date: the 2027 Texas Pawn Convention will take place on April 2nd - 4th, 2027 in Round Rock, Texas Embassy Suites Round Rock.

Oregon

Beth Anundi, President, Oregon Pawnbrokers Association

On April 22 we lost an important member of our association and a wonderful lady. Mitzi Keller of Tunica died. She is survived by her husband and fellow pawnbroker Scott Keller. Our hearts go out to all of Mitzi’s friends and family. The same day past President Kevin Macdonald lost his wife Beth. A very sad day for all Mississippi pawnbrokers. In the last three months, the Mississippi Pawnbrokers has been working with local law enforcement agencies in Gulfport, Tupelo and Madison against hotel gold and antique buyers who set up in hotels and advertise buying gold and valuables. It is against Mississippi law to buy precious metals without a storefront. We have been successful in every instance after presenting the authorities with a copy of the state law. We plan on shutting down every transient gold buyer that tries to come to Mississippi.

Tennessee

Gayle Ferebee, Tennessee Pawnbrokers Association On the legislative front, things are fairly quiet in Tennessee for now. However, as many states have experienced, Tennessee is also seeing an influx of transient gold buyers. In an effort to address this issue, the District Attorneys in all 32 judicial districts across Tennessee have been provided with the current laws regarding precious metal buyers. In addition, they have received Opinion No. 11-69 from the Office of the Tennessee Attorney General, which states that these buyers are in violation of the required holding period for merchandise “at the place in which such business is conducted.” This is a point that seems to have raised a lot of eyebrows amongst law enforcement officials. At this time, we are not aware whether or not any of these operations have been shut down. However, we are actively 38

NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2026

The Oregon Pawnbrokers Association (OPA) continues to demonstrate strong leadership through focused legislative advocacy and meaningful industry collaboration at both the state and national levels. We encourage all Oregon pawnbrokers to join the association to make it even stronger. Unity is critical. OPA remains actively engaged in protecting the interests of pawnbrokers and the customers they serve. Recently, OPA representatives traveled to Washington, D.C. meeting with 6 of Oregon’s 8 congressional offices. These meetings provided an important opportunity to educate federal policymakers on the role of pawn in the financial ecosystem and to strengthen relationships that position OPA as a trusted industry resource. At the state level, OPA has achieved several significant outcomes: • Successfully halted the operation of traveling, illegal gold buyers, protecting consumers and licensed businesses • Continued advocacy related to Oregon Ballot Measure 114, addressing provisions that impact lawful firearm owners and pawn transactions • Secured an exemption for Type 02 FFL holders within Oregon House Bill 3076 • Successfully opposed Oregon Senate Bill 243, preventing additional regulatory burdens In partnership with the Washington State Pawn Association, OPA has co-developed and led the PNW Pawn Conference for the past four years. This conference has become a key regional event, delivering hands-on training in core areas such as precious metals, authentication, and fraud prevention, while also generating financial support for both associations. OPA alongside WSPA, also maintains the PNW Pawn Educational Forum, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing ongoing education and professional development within the industry.

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