Laings appoints new head of retail

Luxury jeweller Laings has appointed Andrew Cleghorn as head of retail as a continuation of its multi-year expansion and development plans.

Cleghorn’s role will see him leading Laings’ seven retail locations in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Southampton.

Coming from a rich retail background, with over 40 years of experience, he joined Laings in 2021 taking over the management of the company’s Edinburgh showroom.

Before Laings, he worked as a retail manager, responsible for up to 20 locations. Throughout his time with the business, Cleghorn has also managed Laings’ previous location in Glasgow’s Argyll Arcade and most recently the new flagship showroom on Buchanan Street, which opened in 2024.

Whilst in this role he mentored staff through product launches and expansions, alongside further improving Laings’ luxury shopping experience and growing sales.

His transition into this role is part of a multi-year investment strategy aimed at strengthening the company.

In recent years, Laings has expanded its presence in Southampton with a move to a larger unit inside West Quay shopping centre and further solidified its footprint in Glasgow by opening a flagship showroom on Buchanan Street.

The new location features a two-floor retail space, a watch service centre, and the company’s head office operations.

Cleghorn’s role will see him as a direct point of contact for store managers and teams and will focus on driving business to each location.

He will also maintain a strong focus on Laings’ diamond and jewellery business at each site, with particular emphasis on Laings Bespoke Design Service.

Additionally, he will prioritise the newly launched Exclusive Creations range – a collection of limited-edition gemstone pieces, designed and crafted in-house.

Cleghorn said:”I am very proud to be taking over as head of retail here at Laings. This step allows me to work closely with the store teams who I have developed relationships with over the last few years whilst also working actively with the board to develop Laings’ presence in the luxury retail space.”

Stuart McDowell, managing director of Laings, added: “Andrew Cleghorn has been instrumental in the success of Laings’ retail spaces throughout his time with the company. His leadership in launching the new flagship showroom further highlights his expertise, making him the ideal choice for this role. We look forward to working alongside him to establish Laings as the premier destination for fine jewellery and luxury watches across all our locations.”