Hansons launches online-only auctions
Derbyshire-based auction house Hansons Auctioneers is to launch a new calendar of live online-only auctions next month.
The firm took the decision to temporarily close its salerooms in Derbyshire, Staffordshire and London in March to protect both clients and staff. This safety measure was taken ahead of the Government’s full lockdown announcement due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Now, after a full analysis of its operations, Hansons has announced a series of online-only sales, launching in May. People from anywhere in the world will be able to bid and buy remotely – and have objects delivered through Hansons’ in-house postage department.
Charles Hanson, owner of Hanson’s Auctioneers, said, “Auctions are currently limited due to the worldwide pandemic but global buyers still wish to add to their collections. We have witnessed particularly strong demand from buyers in the USA as well as other countries.
“Hansons is well placed to provide an excellent online-only auction package. We are a technically-adept firm which offers two online bidding platforms, a respected and experienced postage department and a strong online and social media presence.
“Unlike many firms, we have our own unique online live bidding platform – www.hansonslive.co.uk – as well as a second online bidding platform at the-salesroom.com. Clients can choose to bid or watch on either platform. Alternatively, they can join the auction fun by tuning into Hansons’ sales which will be streamed live on our Twitter, Facebook and YouTube channels.
Hansons’ first online-only auctions will be on May 6-7 with Historica: Coins, Banknotes and Antiquities. This will be followed on May 13-14 with a Fine Jewellery, Silver and Watches Auction. These will be broadcast live from Hansons’ Derbyshire saleroom at Etwall, near Derby.
Then on May 21-22 and 25-26 a Fine & Decorative Arts & Library Auction will be held at Bishton Hall, Hansons’ Country House Auction Showroom in Wolseley Bridge, Staffs.
Charles said: “An auctioneer will be on the rostrum leading the online-only sales but the events will be closed to the public. Hansons’ staff will work remotely operating phonelines, internet bidding and taking payments. “
In April, Charles broadcast an online-only charity auction from his Derbyshire garden shed which was watched by more than 10,000 people and raised £36,000 for the Derby and Burton NHS Charity Covid-19 Appeal.
He said: “The technology is here and, due to the current situation, it’s now being fast-tracked to enable us reach new people and build and develop our business in very testing times. We’re also offering a virtual valuations service for clients. They can email in photos of items and chat to experts via Zoom, Facetime, Skype or WhatsApp.”