Local jeweller appointed head of trade association

Accolade for director of company established in mid-nineteenth century.

Director Andrew Hinds of local jewellers F. Hinds was elected Chairman of the National Association of Goldsmiths (NAG) at the Annual General Meeting held in the Saatchi Gallery in London recently.

This prestigious, historic organisation supports its members to deliver the best jewellery store service by means of education and information, whilst also acting as the main service point for Government, trading standards and the media. Andrew is the second member of the Hinds family to hold a prominent NAG post as Eric Hinds, Andrew’s uncle, was appointed President in 2001. This is an important time for the NAG as negotiations are proceeding with the British Jewellers Association – representing manufacturing jewellers – with the hope that the whole industry could then be represented by just one voice.

This accolade was the first of three during an eventful few days for the company. The second was awarded by Family Business United (FBU) at the Family Business Awards 2014. Paul Andrews, Managing Director of FBU and Panel of Judges Chairman said, “F. Hinds is an exceptional family firm and one that clearly deserves to be recognised. The judges were impressed with the heritage and passion that filters through into all that they do, and obviously has done since they were founded back in 1856. A fascinating journey of a family succeeding in business for generations, where family values are important and where the next generation is already actively involved in the business too.”

“Winning the award is a great accolade for Hinds who have grown to become one of the largest independent jewellers in the UK and we look forward to hearing more from them in the years to come.”

The third award was for the Catalogue Of The Year at the prestigious ECMOD (European Catalogue and Mail Order Days) ceremony, presented by Sky News anchor Dermot Murnaghan in recognition of the creativity, design flair and high production values displayed in F. Hinds’ Christmas 2013 brochure, that expertly reflected the fact that F.Hinds is an affordable yet aspirational brand, delivering good service and a wide range of high quality products.