Building Bridges, Not Walls

In the world of business, competitors aren’t always foes. Sometimes, they can become trusted allies and even friends, helping to build not just individual success, but a thriving industry as a whole. Our story with Carol and Andrew is a perfect example of this.

Carol and Andrew joined Gillian’s Jewellery as jewellers back in 1987. For over two decades, they played an integral role in our team, sharing their incredible craftsmanship and passion for jewellery with our customers. In 2008, they took a bold step and opened their own shop in Croydon. We couldn’t have been prouder of them, knowing they were taking all the skills and values we’d cultivated together into their new venture.

But the story doesn’t end there. When Carol and Andrew decided to retire last year, they made a decision that speaks volumes about the relationship we’ve always had. They didn’t just close their doors and walk away; instead, they started sending all of their loyal customers to us even before they officially retired. This gesture was more than just a passing of the torch—it was a deep expression of trust and camaraderie that we deeply cherish.

Throughout the years, we’ve always maintained a close and friendly relationship with Carol and Andrew, and their decision to entrust us with their customers was a testament to the strong bond we’ve built. It’s a reminder that in this industry, it’s not just about growing your own business; it’s about supporting each other and contributing to the health and vibrancy of the entire community.

We’re proud to have made such wonderful friends in the industry, and we’re committed to continuing this spirit of collaboration. By working together, we not only strengthen our own businesses but also create a more resilient and connected industry for everyone.

Here’s to building bridges, not walls—and to the friendships that make our journey so much richer.  We’d like to wish Carol and Andrew all the best with their retirement, and certainly looking forward to catching up with them again soon!