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Relocated gem of Front Street shines again

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New place: Astwood Dickinson’s managing director Ian Smith, left, and CEO Somers Cooper in the relocated store, which is in Orbis House on Front Street

Jewellers Astwood Dickinson has moved house to a new store — after more than 100 years in the same Front Street location.

The jewellers will today unveil their sleek new look at the new store, in the Orbis building opposite the ferry terminal on Front Street.

And Astwood Dickinson managing director Ian Smith said the firm had expanded its range of watches and jewellery.

“We believed that we could create something in Bermuda in location, product and team, that could operate anywhere in the world,” he said.

“Just because we live on a small island, doesn’t mean we can’t be the best in the world.”

The firm made the move after a year of planning — and Mr Smith said there was room for further expansion in the new premises, with 1,500 square feet of extra space available.

Astwood Dickinson CEO Somers Cooper, said: “It’s always a risk when moving an iconic store to a new location.”

However, he said the new site was closer to the business hub on Pitts Bay Road, while the ferry terminal guaranteed interest from the tourist market.

“We sensed that the local economy would start to improve soon, especially with the announcement of Bermuda hosting the America’s Cup,” said Mr Cooper.

“The redevelopment of the Hamilton Princess just up the road was icing on the cake.”

He added: “We believed that a move to Orbis House would appeal to our customer base and allow us to showcase our beautiful products in an updated setting.

“This move represents our strong commitment to the Island, our customers, our staff and our vendors.

“If we do as well as we hope we will, we will build back further.”

The store features an expanded range from the Hearts on Fire diamond collection, as well as the 18 carat gold Original Bermuda Collection, which includes the Longtail bird.

The store’s new-look was the brainchild of Mr Cooper’s business partner James Boyce and Mr Smith.

Mr Boyce said: “Ian came on board and we developed a game plan to enhance our current offerings and introduce new and exciting brands to the Island.

“At the same time, Ian focused on recruiting and training staff with an eye to create and maintain a world-class standard of customer service.”

New place: Astwood Dickinson’s managing director Ian Smith, left, and CEO Somers Cooper in the relocated store, which is in Orbis House on Front Street
Ready for customers: The new-look, relocated Astwood Dickinson store on Front Street