Lancaster jewellers changes hands through management buyout

The future of a jewellers in Lancaster has been safeguarded after the store’s longstanding manager purchased the business with backing from Yorkshire Bank.

Stable End Curios, which has traded for more than three decades, is set to be taken over by Mark Ellis following the retirement of the business’ current owner, Mario Sarchet.

To ensure the company fell into familiar hands, Mario presented Mark with a buyout opportunity that meant he only had to purchase the stock to acquire the business.

Mark, who completed the buyout using a Yorkshire Bank support package, said: “When Mario presented me with the offer to run the business, it was too much of an opportunity to turn down.

“I’ve been working with Mario as a senior manager for more than 18 years, 10 of them in Lancaster at Stable End Curios.”

He continued: “I have come to know the customers and the area very well. It’s a new challenge but I’m looking forward to it.

“I aim to continue running the business as normal, and we’ll be getting additional new stock in for early 2016.”

Established in 1983, Stable End Curios’ offer ranges from watches and diamonds, and also includes a repair service. The company currently has a team of three full- and part-time staff.

Stewart Cook, the head of Yorkshire Bank’s Preston-based business and private banking centre in Preston, said: “Yorkshire Bank has worked with the company for more than 13 years, and we know Mark well so it’s great to be able play a role in supporting him as he takes over the running of Stable End Curios.

“We look forward to seeing how the business grows in the years to come and wish him all the best.”

Stewart added: “As economic conditions continue to improve, Yorkshire Bank remains committed to supporting the growth ambitions of local businesses such as Stable End Curios.”

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