FB News

High-end jeweller Boodles takes family business to Asia

By Attracta Mooney

Boodles, the high-end British jeweller owned by the Wainwrights, has opened a new store in Hong Kong, as the family business attempts to break into the Asian market.

The family decided to set up the concession, located in luxury department store Lane Crawford, because of growing demand from the Asian market, said joint managing director Michael Wainwright, whose great-great-grandfather purchased the business in the early 1900s.

“Boodles has traditionally been known for having a predominantly British customer base, but in the past year we have witnessed notable successes with overseas customers including those from the Far East. They have been attracted to the focus on design and find a British family business rather appealing,” he told CampdenFB.

If the first concession goes well, Boodles may look to create further stores and concessions overseas, he said, particularly in Asia.

The new Hong Kong outlet is Boodles’ first store outside of the UK and Ireland since it was established as Boodle & Dunthorne county jeweller in Liverpool in 1798. Since the 1990s, it has focused heavily on design, creating unique Boodle pieces that sell for up to £1 million (€1.14 million).

The Wainwright family is sole owner of the business and is very involved in its day-to-day running. As well as Michael and his brother Nicolas, next-generation members Jody, son of Nicolas, and James Amos, a nephew, are also directors.  

Top Stories