"Finding and Independent retailer offering something different is always a delight"

This weeks Yorkshire Post Retail supplement has focused on creating the perfect shopping experience on our high streets. The article really illustrates the benefits of Independent retailers on the high street, offering customers knowledge and experience whilst also competing hard on quality and service.

Sarah Cordey from the British Retail Consortium says "What town centres need is a healthy mix of both big name retailers and independent stores, which often give high streets individuality whilst also catering for local tastes"(1)

At Form Bespoke Jewellers we know that the key to our on going success is the bespoke personal service that we give to each of our customers, making them want to come back to us and recommend us to their friends and family. Customers can create something a bit different which is unique to them.

As big chain stores and supermarkets continue to fight for market share, it is the independent retailers that offer that point of difference, which offer customers something that little bit different. One recent customer chose to design and create his partners engagement ring with Form Bespoke Jewellers, despite working in Ireland. He said "After visiting a variety of jewellers in Leeds and in other cities, I was confused and slightly intimidated. In this context, my first meeting with Form was refreshingly warm and welcoming. They translate and communicate industry jargon in a way that is wholly understandable and accessible. After five minutes with Gary (Thompson of Form Jewellers), I understood details that seemed previously baffling and, more importantly, I felt involved in a design process rather than feeling that I was just buying a product."

Form Bespoke Jewellers worked closely with the customer, often virtually, sending over CAD designs for approval as well as working hard to source the right diamond to achieve their design aspirations and suit their budget. The customer said: "The final piece is simply stunning and much more impressive than I could possibly have anticipated beforehand. I would not say that I had planned on feeling proud of the ring that I used to propose with but after working with Gary during the design process I really did. Thanks to Gary and the team for doing such a outstanding job and for making the whole experience such good fun." To read this customers full testimonial, please click here.

This customer experience illustrates the depth of customer service which Form Bespoke Jewellers are able to offer to enable their customers to create not only a piece of jewellery but also an experience truly individual to them.

Susie Cawood, head of the York and North Yorkshire Chamber, says that Independent retailers are the "fingerprint of Yorkshire's High Streets, she says: "They make our towns and cities unique and are a vital part of the local economy. It is important that both residents and visitors are provided with a diverse and comprehensive retail experience. The relationship between independent retailers and the large chain stores is symbolic as they both help attract visitors. For example in Leeds is is a combination of luxurious brands, such as Harvey Nichols, Mulberry and Louis Vuitton and the famous arcades which house numerous independent retailers, that has resulted in the city becoming a leading shopping destination." (2)

With recent customer commissions coming from as far a field as Plymouth, Southampton and Edinburgh, Form Bespoke Jewellers have been shown just how unique their service and products are. Customers, who travelled from Nottingham to create their Tiffany style engagement ring, said of their experience at Form Bespoke Jewellers; "Tim (Swann, Director of Form) worked with me and my partner Ben to create my DREAM engagement ring. And I was not disappointed. From the outset, Tim and his colleagues offered a fantastic service, discussing ideas, showing examples, explaining the finer details, to ensure we completely understood the process of designing and fabricating the ring. I even got to pick my diamond! The whole process was highly enjoyable, and I ended up with a ring that is way beyond my expectations, yet still to budget - which was kept in mind all the way through. The quality of workmanship is exceptional..... If you're looking for something extra special, a lifetime piece, then this is the place to go. Thanks guys!!" To view this testimonial please click here.

Customer feedback such as this proves that the service we are able to offer our customer really sets us apart and enriches the local high street. Winning the Leeds Guide Award as Most Highly Commended Jeweller 2011 - 2012 will continue to raise our profile and further define Leeds as a great place to shop for both big brands and unique bespoke items.

(1) & (2) quote source, Yorkshire Post, special publication 24.10.11