VOHS: Banks Lyon

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Name: Rodney Banks Lyon

Location: Lancaster

Year Established: 1985

Number of Staff: 12

Website: www.bankslyon.co.uk

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When was Banks Lyon founded?

Banks Lyon Jewellers was founded by myself in 1985. Having served various apprenticeships at H. Samuel, Mappin & Webb and Goldsmiths alongside gaining a distinction in my FGA, my father was convinced of the seriousness of my intentions to become a jeweller in Lancaster thus helped fund the opening of Banks Lyon Jewellers.

What makes Banks Lyon stand out from other jewellery retailers?

I believe we do truly go that extra mile in offering an unrivalled level of service and expertise to our customers. We have a multiple approach to retailing through our newly-refurbished store and brand new website as well as a fully engaged social media platform which keeps customers up to date with brand new product launches and Banks Lyon Jewellers news, not forgetting the success of our ever-growing Bob’s Blog, now at 2,195 followers. With myself and Bob having a combined 70 years of jewellery retail experience we have long-standing relationships with some of the finest workshops in the country as well as an in-store bespoke design service meaning there are few enquires we are unable to assist with. Furthermore, we have a young and dynamic workforce.

You offer a personal shopper experience, what does this add to the store?

Our personal shopper experience ensures our customers are offered a truly unique and personal experience when buying from Banks Lyon Jewellers. We are able to provide a highly experienced and knowledgeable sales person to guide our customers through any buying process making the customer feel valued. Our sales team can contact the customer however they wish, this can be over the phone, in store, via email even using Skype and Whatsapp chat.

You recently underwent a refurbishment, tell us about that

This was some 12 months in the planning with numerous redesigns before settling upon the final version. We worked closely with Hallmark shop fitters designer Jo Coleman. The new design incorporates branded areas for our premier watch brands and is more contemporary. Our customers seem to love it. The refurbishment has helped reinforce our status as a destination worth visiting.

You celebrated your 30th anniversary recently, how much of a milestone is this for an independent jeweller?

Whilst 30 years is by no means a long-time in the jewellery trade, the Banks Lyon family have been in retail on Church Street in Lancaster for 125 years. I am delighted that this year has seen my daughter and fiancé join the business as the second generation for Banks Lyon Jewellers, so here’s to the next 30 years.

What has been the biggest change to the industry since you founded the company?

The trade bears scant resemblance to what it was five years ago let alone 30. What has changed? The brands are now dominant, internet has revolutionised retailing and allowed manufacturers and diamond dealers, and others, immediate access to the buying public, the result being a more competitive and transparent market.

What does the future hold for Banks Lyon?

The future is looking incredibly bright for Banks Lyon Jewellers, as mentioned previously I have a new generation on board and have a brand-new showroom and new website which I am incredibly proud of. The year 2016 is looking like a year for expansion both in new premises as well as our continued pursuit to offer more of the world’s finest brands, we will keep you posted.