Cairncross of Perth, in Perthshire, Scotland, has announced that it will be closing its doors after 154 years of trading.
Current owner, Flora Rennie, has been gearing up for retirement, searching for a buyer to take on the historic jeweller.
She has, unfortunately, failed to find a buyer in the current retail landscape, meaning that the jeweller will be forced to close for good on Saturday 29 July 2023.
Rennie told the Daily Record: “It is with great sadness that we bring Cairncross’s story to an end.
“I am incredibly proud of the business and the people who have cared for and nurtured it over the years.
“Together we have established a reputation for high-quality jewellery, the craftsmanship of own jewellery and exceptional customer service, earning a place in the hearts of many in Perth, in Scotland, and beyond, who I know will be sorry to see the doors close.
“At my age, it really is time for me to retire.
“But despite our strong trading record, the retail sector remains challenging and, sadly, a buyer could not be found.
“That left only one very difficult option to take and that was to close.
“My sincere thanks to everyone who has either worked with us or shopped with us over the years.”
Estate agent, Knightsbridge, has been brought in to manage the sale and Rennie will continue to look for a buyer in the interim.
The independent family-run jewellers was originally founded by Alexander and George Cairncross in 1869, under the name A & G Cairncross.
Cairncross entered a new era in 1988, when George’s sons – James and Alistair – retired and sold the business to Flora Rennie.
Rennie wanted to maintain the feel of an independent, family-run jewellery business – making this a priority during the acquisition.
The category B shopfront, which was designed by E Pollard & Co in 1911, remains unchanged – a point of tradition on St John Street in Perth.
In recent years, the business has sold internationally across Europe, America and Canada.
Cairncross of Perth has stocked some of the most famous international brands, including: Raymond Weil, Tissot, Picchiotti, Chimento, Lapponia, Schoeffel, Richard Cooper Bronzes, Dante Cenci, Baccarat, Andrew Geoghegan, Halcyon Days, and Eden.
Alongside its offering of high-end jewellery and watches, Cairncross is the only jeweller with a licence to sell Scottish freshwater pearls.
Story originally published on professionaljeweller.com
