Jewellers scoops top national award

A Blackburn jewellers has won the top prize at the industry's biggest national awards.

Fifth-generation Ainsworth Jewellers was named Jewellery Retailer of the Year at the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) Awards.

The 150-year-old firm, which has recently undergone a brand refresh, was recognised for its has evolution over the past 12 months.

Ben Massey, chief executive of the NAJ said: “Ainsworth Jewellers has delivered impressive brand transformation and refresh, further strengthening its position as a luxury jewellery destination.

"At the heart of that transformation is a personal rather than transactional experience built around education and storytelling. This was backed by an exceptional mystery shopper score.”

Over the past 12 months, Ainsworth Jewellers has introduced a new website designed to inspire and educate rather than operate as a conventional e-commerce platform.

At its showroom in Darwen Street, the owners have introduced a new Champagne bar with relaxed seating, private consultation rooms and a heritage timeline and museum.

For Phil Ainsworth, who has spent more than three decades in the business, and his wife, Helen Dimmick, the award represents recognition of a strategy that combines heritage with a clear vision for the future.

Phil said: “To hear our name announced and receive such a fantastic response from the room was genuinely overwhelming.

“We have worked incredibly hard to evolve the business, challenge traditional ideas about jewellery retail and create something that feels truly unique and different. Our heritage is enormously important to us, but we have never believed that standing still is an option.”

Helen said: “For us, buying jewellery should never simply be a transaction. It is about understanding people, the occasions they are celebrating and the stories they want a piece to tell. We want every customer to leave with not only something beautiful, but also the knowledge, confidence and memories that make the experience special.

“This award is a wonderful endorsement of that philosophy and a testament to the hard work, creativity and commitment of our team. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and excited about what comes next.”