Two Devonshire based AIS Member Principals, David Austin of Austins department store in Newton Abbott, and Liz Lawson of Lawsons homeware store in Tavistock, recently attended a special reception in the presence of His Majesty The King, held at Buckingham Palace.
Boasting over 200 years of combined retail service, both Austins and Lawsons are family owned and managed stores, and have remained stalwarts of the Devonshire high street. The invitation to meet King Charles was in recognition of both stores’ contribution to the UK economy as small businesses.
Commenting on this momentous occasion, David Austin, Store Principal of Austins, said:
"We were in a group of only four retailers and were able to talk to the King who was extraordinarily personable, interested and engaging. It was all such a privilege, and everyone at the Austins has been excited and thrilled that this recognition and honour was extended to us."
Fellow guest, Liz Lawson, Store Principal of Lawsons, added:
"There were many businesses there, from engineering to retail to software companies, some with similar histories spanning over a hundred years. Thank you to everyone for all their hard work and commitment which makes our small business so special."
Sue Kemp, AIS Managing Director commented:
“We are proud and delighted that two of our members were invited to meet with King Charles. It is testimony to both Austins and Lawsons that they were handpicked to attend this royal reception in celebration of their commitment to retail, and the community they serve”.
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