CLOGAU GOLD is celebrating 30 years with a landmark range of jewellery and a glittering vision for future growth.
[aoa id=”1″]
The multi award-winning North Wales business has unveiled the 1854 gold blend to mark the anniversary, a unique metal with a pale rose yellow tone that’s already proving popular with customers the world over.
And the world is very much their audience following an unprecedented period of expansion which has seen their workforce grow to almost 170 staff in Wales alone.
[/aoa]
Now supplying retailers across the globe and international airlines including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Lufthansa, and airports from Cardiff to Kuala Lumpur, their products appear in more than 20 countries.
Clogau has also bucked the trend on the high street and successfully opened boutique stores in Bangor, Broughton, Swansea, London, Llandudno and Cardiff – which is currently being refurbished and refitted – and larger outlets in Birmingham, Bridgend and at Cheshire Oaks, Ellesmere Port.
They have plans for three more in the coming 12 months, proof that consumers are still keen to enjoy the shopping experience, as well as browsing and buying online.
1854 is itself a milestone in the brand’s history; gold was discovered for the first time at the St David’s mine in Dolgellau that year, which led to it becoming the richest and most productive gold mine in the country.
Managing director Ben Roberts said by reflecting on the success of the last 30 years and embracing the history of Welsh gold they are laying the foundation for an even brighter future.
“The story behind the gold and our roots here in Wales are at the heart of everything we do, and that will never change,” said Ben.
“But what is even more satisfying is that we have a spirit and drive within the company to retain these traditions while being at the forefront of advances in the sector, keeping our designs fresh and appealing to a wide audience.
“For Clogau to have kept growing and be in such a strong position is incredible after 30 years, considering the challenges facing all industries over the decades, but we have done it and plan to be around for another 30 years and beyond.”
Founded by Ben’s father William in 1989, Clogau Gold is now one of the world’s most beloved independent brands.
The royal connection has reinforced their reputation, with Welsh gold – the rarest and most sought-after in the world – used in the wedding rings of Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, Catherine Middleton and, most recently, Meghan Markle.
Bespoke collections have won over the public and judges at the 2018 UK Jewellery Awards, who named them Retailer of the Year ahead of well-known chains like Goldsmiths, Beaverbrooks, Thomas Sabo and Mococo.
And they are hoping to retain that title this time around, as Clogau is nominated for four awards at the 2019 prizegiving, to be held in July.
With further product lines on the horizon, Ben says further growth into 2020 is achievable.
“We have big plans for the rest of the year and are always moving forward,” said Ben.
“More stores and partnerships overseas with airlines, cruise ships and airports means more jobs here in Wales and a greater contribution to the local economy.
“That’s important to us, as while we are operating on a global scale our home will always be in North Wales and we value our position as one of the region’s biggest employers, particularly in retail, which is an area which has gone through a very difficult few years.”
He added: “The 1854 blend probably represents best how we plan to unite what we have done in the past with our plan for the years ahead, while symbolising the work that has gone on behind the scenes to build the name and create a brand we are all proud of.
“I have no doubt the next 30 years will be as exciting and challenging as the 30 that have gone before but we are ready for that, and I would like to thank all of our staff, our customers and the many companies we work with for your support as we begin the next chapter in Clogau’s rich history.”
