A historic Blackburn jeweller has been named Jewellery Retailer of the Year.
Ainsworth Jewellers in Blackburn took home the honour at the National Association of Jewellers Awards 2026, earning praise for its brand transformation and customer experience.
The judges commended the fifth-generation family business for its evolving approach to luxury retail while staying true to its heritage.
Ben Massey, chief executive of the National Association of Jewellers, said: "Ainsworth Jewellers has delivered impressive brand transformation and refresh, further strengthening its position as a luxury jewellery destination.
"At the heart of that transformation is a personal rather than transactional experience built around education and storytelling.
"This was backed by an exceptional mystery shopper score."
Phil Ainsworth, who has worked at the Darwen Street jewellers for more than 30 years, said: "Winning Jewellery Retailer of the Year is an incredible achievement for all of us at Ainsworth Jewellers.
"To hear our name announced and receive such a fantastic response from the room was genuinely overwhelming.
"We have worked incredibly hard to evolve the business, challenge traditional ideas about jewellery retail and create something that feels truly unique and different.
"Our heritage is enormously important to us, but we have never believed that standing still is an option."
The retailer has invested in a new website focused on education and storytelling, as well as an in-house photography studio.
Its showroom now features a Champagne bar, private consultation rooms, and a heritage timeline and museum.
The business has also introduced a lab-grown diamond collection and became the exclusive stockist of PureJewels’ 22ct Sunrise Gold Lotus Collection.
Helen Dimmick, who works alongside Mr Ainsworth, said: "For us, buying jewellery should never simply be a transaction.
"It is about understanding people, the occasions they are celebrating, and the stories they want a piece to tell.
"We want every customer to leave with not only something beautiful, but also the knowledge, confidence and memories that make the experience special.
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"This award is a wonderful endorsement of that philosophy and a testament to the hard work, creativity and commitment of our team.
"We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and excited about what comes next."
Ainsworth Jewellers also runs a programme of events and collaborations, including Inspire & Desire educational events and Ainsworth at Home private jewellery experiences.
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