To promote that business he set about networking and seizing the day with a very specific goal: a local guide to antiques. He takes up this interesting story.
“I launched The Antiques Tourist in 2015. The concept was quite simple. Every advertiser receives enough copies to distribute to their visitors and customers. This becomes a referral on recommendation – peer to peer.
“I restricted coverage to Dorset, Devon and Somerset as this fits well with my antiques centre which is pretty well central to all three counties. I use various distribution methods to ensure copies are available in TICs, visitor centres, tourist attractions and hotels.“
Bucke adds: “The latest 2018 guide is a third larger at 48 pages and with a distribution of 48,000.”
All quarters
Step forward Hendrika Stephens of the Sheffield Antiques Quarter, who in a collaboration with Bucke can now offer visitors her own The Antiques Tourist which will cover Sheffield, South Yorkshire, Derbyshire and the Peaks.
The guide had its official launch on May 8 at the Abbeydale Picture House in the quarter. Stephens says: “Last year a trader in the quarter came across the guide while touring the south-west and I contacted the editor to see if they might consider developing a publication for the north of England.
“It seems perfectly suited to an area which boasts a plethora of fabulous antiques and vintage businesses as well as an exceptionally beautiful and historic landscape. I’m delighted with the publication and the response has been excellent. “
The Sheffield Antiques Quarter started out five years ago with 21 businesses: there are now 60 independent businesses including eight antiques centres and assorted shops selling vintage and reclamation.
Both versions of The Antiques Tourist are on the websites below.
