A renowned Aberdeen jeweller is to increase its presence in the city centre after purchasing a neighbouring property in order to expand its business.
The extension will allow Finnies the Jeweller, which has been a leading fixture on George Street for decades, to have more space to display its stock.
The purchase and refurbishment of the building also coincides with the company marking its 60th year of business in 2017.
It will give Finnies an additional 185 square metres of shopfloor space and it is hoped it will enable the company to expand its team.
Matthew Finnie, a director at the firm, said: “It’s been 17 years since we had a substantial extension to increase shopfloor space and the opportunity to purchase the building next door in George Street was not to be missed.
“In the 60th year of our business this is a very exciting development for us and we are looking forward to a bright future in Aberdeen with our refurbished retail space.
“A beautiful shop is the only place to view jewellery and watches and once the works are complete we will have a large retail space which will retain its current comfortable atmosphere for our customers.
“As one of the founder members of the Greater George Street Traders Association, designed to promote the amenity and desirability of the area, we have the belief the future is bright in George Street.
“Anticipated developments at the Bon Accord Centre, Sandman Hotel and the Broadford works are attracting huge investments to the area. We are looking forward to embracing the greater footfall these developments will attract.”
In addition to its watch department, Finnies also designs and produces bespoke pieces of jewellery.
Mr Finnie said he believed it was essential for business growth to continue to have a notable presence.
He said: ‘Whilst some may view investment in high-street premises to be a risk, we believe it’s essential for a business to grow.
“Our belief is whilst e-commerce has its place, the world’s finest jewellery and watches are never shown to their best advantage online. A sparkling diamond ring looks far more attractive viewed at first-hand and even more so fitted to a hand. Our expanded premises will provide the ideal setting for our customers to view and purchase the pieces which catch their eye.”
Stuart Milne, general manager of Finnies, who is also the chairman of the Greater George Street Traders Association, added: “The investment in Finnies The Jewellers business represents great faith in the future of George Street as an important trading area in Aberdeen. It complements other prospective investments in the area including, the Bon Accord Centre, the new Sandman Hotel, and the non-retail developments of the Broadford works and North East of Scotland college.”