Custodians: Victoria Houghton

What does it mean to you to be named in the Walpole 2022 Power List?

I’m extremely honoured to be named in the Walpole 2022 Power List. It’s been a turbulent couple of years for the entire retail industry, but I’m pleased to report that 2021 has been a successful year for the Hamilton & Inches brand. We’ve gone through a huge transformation so it’s great to see that being recognised amongst our peers.

What have you or your business achieved in the past year that you are most proud of?

Unveiling the newly refurbished showroom earlier this year was a real landmark moment for myself, the team, and the Hamilton & Inches brand. It’s been an incredible journey working with our amazing suppliers who brought our vision to life. We wanted to create a luxury space that not only enriches the customer experience but also pays homage to our local roots. We did so by working with extremely talented local suppliers who understood our vision but also know the Hamilton & Inches history and heritage that we’re so proud of to this day. We maintained the character of the building but elevated it into the 21st century. The customer experience remained at the forefront of the refurbishment project and centred on incorporating luxury residential elements into a retail environment, to achieve an inviting and comfortable atmosphere whilst creating a memorable luxury experience.

Some of the most exciting changes include the refurbishment of our workshops upstairs, the new VIP consultation rooms, the state-of-the-art Rolex-accredited workshop and expanding Patek Philippe’s presence on the showroom floor. 

Alongside the new showroom, we also relaunched the Hamilton & Inches brand through every client touchpoint. The creative went through an innovative transition and we launched our new website with a refreshed tone of voice that both retains the brand heritage and history - but with a new contemporary feel.

What is 2022 set to look like for your business?

2022 will focus on growth for us. We’ve spent 2021 establishing our new foundation, developing a clear brand message, and building a strong, succinct team. We’re stronger than ever going into 2022 and I’m excited for everything it will throw at us and the opportunities for growth within the business.

What are you most looking forward to professionally for 2022?

One of the things I’m most looking forward to is spearheading the expansion of our Hamilton & Inches Craft Academy. As a business, we’re passionate about helping to further the future of craftsmanship in Scotland and we do so by continuing to invest in apprenticeships and training. In 2022, we’re expanding our Academy even wider by recruiting for 3 positions within the training scheme, investing in the next generation of our industry. We also have some exciting Scottish Gold launches coming up in 2022 but I can’t reveal too much about that just yet.

And personally?

Personally, I can’t wait for the world to open up again and to travel once more. To be back on a plane, experience new cultures and draw inspiration from the world around us. I’m looking forward to attending international jewellery and watch fairs and events and reconnecting with friends and colleagues. I’m hopeful for the day where we all come back together again.



See the Walpole Power List 2022 in full here.