The Laings Journal
With a 180 year history, Laings is a family-owned company that has seen its fair share of challenges and 2020 has been no different. Here we explore Laings history looking at how we’ve evolved and adapted through the years.
Laings is a luxury independent jewellers and family business that has stood the test of time, founded in 1840 we have a fascinating story to tell that spans 180 years. Our story is by no means coming to an end and we’re continuously looking forward to the next chapter. Now in the hands of the sixth-generation of the Laing family, it is this family spirit that has helped us to endure more challenging times, allowing us to continue to tell our sparkling story.
Through the hardships of two world wars and economic uncertainty, we’ve adapted to circumstances and continued to thrive. Throughout our history, we’ve always been part of celebrating loved ones and marking special moments in your lifetime. We understand that in difficult times relationships do not stop and cherished moments continue, during these times family and those special to you become even more important and valued.
Our exquisite pieces act as tokens of love. They’ve always carried beautiful sentiments and will be treasured for years to come. Throughout the years we’ve aimed to be there for customers in every way that we can, adapting and evolving, with our special pieces sparking moments of joy.
We began our sparkling history in 1840 and it wasn’t long before we first adapted. In the beginning, we supplied the Clydebuilt vessels with crockery and silverware, but we quickly expanded into retail becoming a family-run jewellers. This change meant that we became the jeweller of choice amongst Victorian gentry.
Our innovative spirit and willingness to evolve also meant that we’ve seen various moves over the years. From Merchant City to Gordon Street and Vincent Street, we explored the city centre of Glasgow before settling in the historic Argyll Arcade. We’ve also expanded and have opened in Edinburgh, Southampton and Cardiff, taking the Laings name to new places.
However, times haven’t also been easy. As World War II took hold the demand for jewellery hit rock bottom. This was a huge challenge for a luxury retailer, but we evolved and began to sell antique furniture and crockery, keeping the Laings name alive.
By the time the 1960s came around the world was a different place and Laings had to adapt if we wanted to continue, it was time for a new style. Robert Laing took on the challenge and re-invented the family business. He introduced a contemporary image, along with a trailblazing approach to retail. When Stuart Laing joined the company he carried on this pioneering approach, opening the first-ever Watch Gallery and Ring Room.
In 2005 the family business was split between two brothers. However, it didn’t take long until the company was reunited and in 2017 we came back together. This did have its challenges, but we quickly evolved to become known as one, as ‘Laings’.
This year has seen us have to adapt and evolve more quickly than ever before. As lockdown hit, we became more reliant than ever on our website so that we could continue to be there for customers. Our Online Service Team were available to help people find their special items, with their expertise and knowledge providing the luxurious Laings experience in an online domain.
Now, we have re-opened our stores to the new normal. This was by no means an easy task and the safety and comfort of our staff, community and customers was paramount. We’ve introduced bespoke appointments to control social distancing in-store, whilst also allowing us to provide a luxurious service. We’ve also brought into place a safety pledge to ensure a comfortable and safe shopping experience.
Although it has been a difficult year we are continuously looking to our sparkling future, using our past challenges as inspiration. The way we’ve evolved and adapted demonstrates the passion, determination and strength of our customer relationships. We’re looking forward to continuing our story and we’re sure there will be more situations to embrace and adapt to in years to come.
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