History of diversification

An Example of Diversification

Cheffins has grown and developed through a long history of diversification and innovation. The creation of the Fine Arts department is a typical example of adapting to changing circumstances.

Throughout its history, Cheffins' auctioneers had sold the occasional painting or suite of furniture when disposing of an estate or house. In 1904 records show that the furniture and contents of Freshwell House, Saffron Walden, were sold by Cheffins as were valuable antiques and Chippendale furniture from Lofts Hall, Elmdon.

It was in the late 1970s that plans were formed to develop an auction house devoted to fine arts as part of the strategy to protect Cheffins from the decline in livestock markets – formerly its core business.

Auctions focusing solely on antique furniture, porcelain, glass and books were being organised by 1980 and these were very much the brainchild of Paul Gooderham, who became chairman of Cheffins in 1982, and who had also led Cheffins into vintage machinery and steam engine sales in the early 1970s.

He argued that agriculture could not sustain the firm. In addition, his twin passions for antiques and vintage machinery played a crucial role, supported by growing consumer demand for antiques and bygones.

The aim was to create a substantial Fine Arts sector run by experts which would compete with the best auction houses. A team was recruited and on 10 March 1982 a newly built Fine Arts saleroom was opened alongside the old cattle market.

The present team was recruited progressively with Jonathan Law and Charles Ashton initially, followed by Richard Haywood, George Archdale and Sarah Flynn. The 'younger generation' of Martin Millard and Luke MacDonald coming along later.

In 1993 Cheffins introduced a bi-monthly two-day fine art sale which combined various separate specialist sales and this set the pattern for the future. Further refinements include the launch of the fortnightly Decorative Interiors sales, Sporting and Country Pursuits, Specialist Books, Maps and Prints and the annual Wine sale.

In 2002 two new salerooms were incorporated into the redeveloped headquarters building at Clifton House.

In recent years Cheffins Fine Art Department has established a strong, national and international reputation. It has embraced new technology such as on-line internet bidding with buyers from Seattle to Beijing able to bid at the press of a button.

Jonathan Law says that the aim of the department is to provide an expert service with an individual approach to a client's requirements which only a well-established and coherent team can do.