Graves, J G, Ltd

Sectors:

  • Luxury / consumer goods production Clock, watch & chronometer making
  • Distribution - retailing Mail order & catalogue retailing

Notes:

Traced origins to John G Graves, 1866-1945, who started out as a watchmaker and by late 1880s was selling watches direct to public via newspaper advertising and on an installment basis. 1885 started watchmaking. Diversified into a much broader range of goods and issued catalogues. Emerged as a leading mail order house and by 1903 employing 3,000. Sold to Great Universal Stores Ltd (GUS). J G Graves accumulated significant personal wealth and much was used in philanthropic gifts to Sheffield - eg Graves Gallery, Graves Park. 1930 established J G Graves Charitable Trust, funded by shares from his business, to further his philanthropic interests [2024]

Groups: