Manchester-based Mays Pawnbrokers welcomed a special guest from across the pond this week, as the company continues to mark its 190th birthday in style.
Seth Gold, of American Jewelry & Loan, is one of the stars of US TV programme ‘Hardcore Pawn’ – a reality show that follows Seth, his sister Ashley and father Les in their day-to-day life as Detroit pawnshop owners.
A fourth-generation pawnbroker, Seth was named ‘Pawnbroker of the Year’ in 2013 by the National Pawnbrokers Association in the US. He stopped off at Mays as part of a European tour, which has seen the family promoting their show in Italy.
Mays was first established in Manchester in 1825 and the family-run business has successfully adapted to widespread changes within the pawnbroking industry over the years. The company’s rich history and obvious staying power certainly impressed the TV personality.
“Wherever I am in the world, I enjoy stopping by local pawnshops,” he commented.
“Pawnbroking is such a complex and unique business, it’s always interesting to learn the similarities and differences of how we run our businesses and the challenges that we mutually encounter. There’s no better way to stay on top of the best practices in pawnbroking than to network with other pawnbrokers.”
Mays’ General Manager, Jason Darrington, was delighted to welcome Seth to the company’s oldest serving store in Collyhurst, stating that it’s a poignant way to mark the company’s 190th year in existence.
Even though Seth’s store in Detroit is over 3,500 miles away from our store in Manchester, it was surprising how many similarities we shared as pawnbroking businesses. Both our companies have a rich heritage which spans back generations,” Jason commented.
Mays was the first pawnbrokers to open in the North West, with its original shop being based on Rochdale Road in Collyhurst, Manchester. The digital revolution has undoubtedly had a huge impact on traditional high street retailers, and the fact that Mays continues to go from strength to strength demonstrates how well the business has moved with the times.
Mays Pawnbrokers & Jewellers are planning a major celebration to mark their 190th birthday later this year.
