Jewellers mark first anniversary
Fennes Jewellery, an award-winning gem of a retailer in Fife, has just celebrated a year of trading
This month saw the first anniversary of being open for business for a specialised jewellery boutique which is fast building a reputation for unique products, excellent customer service and a very personal touch.
Set on Eastfield Business Park in Glenrothes, Fennes Jewellery was started in August 2018 by Jo-ann Kinnear, who has 25 years of experience in the industry.
She says: “I’m not on the high street, I’m off the beaten track, but I am attached to [the adjacent] Robertson Fine Art, so we are well placed for people popping in there, as well as those seeking us out.”
Jo-ann describes her jewellery lines as classic, saying: “Whatever anyone buys from me today will not date. I really encourage people to look for something that they will love for years, rather than something to match their favourite dress of the moment.”
Fennes customers range from shoppers buying a modest bracelet or set of earrings as a gift, to those looking for an heirloom piece.
Jo-ann says: “We do have people coming in who have perhaps been left a legacy in a Will and want to buy something special with it, and that is a lovely way to remember a loved one.
“At the other end of the scale, we have youngsters who don’t have that kind of money but want to get something meaningful for a friend.”
Jo-ann spends time with each customer to get a real idea of their personal style to fully recommend the right piece.
She adds: “I can offer a bespoke service for newly engaged couples and people appreciate that it is more than just walking into a shop and pointing at the first ring they like.
“I discuss different styles and can get in anything they are interested in. You have to really understand what would make them happy – after all, it will be worn for a lifetime.”
Fennes has made a point of stocking younger designers alongside the big name lines, to encourage those starting out.
The retailer’s collection covers jewellery from Scotland, the rest of the UK and an overseas designer from Denmark.
The work of Linda Macdonald from Loch Lomond, who produces silver jewellery inspired by nature and romance, is regularly stocked and is very popular.
Prices here range from £15 to £4,000, but Jo-ann insists the same principle applies at both ends of the pricing gamut: “It has to be a quality item, good value for money and something a little bit different.”
Despite being just 12 months old, Fennes’ qualities have already been recognised. In February, it won Best Specialised Retailer in Fife at Scotlands Business Awards, and reached the final of the UK Jewellery Awards 2019.
Unlike many start-ups, the Fennes business plan is not to expand online. Jo-ann explains: “I don’t want to go down the e-commerce route, our unique selling point is personal service, so while I’m happy to reach out to customers on social media, I enjoy meeting people and finding exactly the right piece for them.”
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