By Mark Tavender | Photography by https://www.instagram.com/yevphotography
For the residents of North Shields and the surrounding areas, the name Huscrofts has become synonymous with unique finds and a touch of nostalgia. Situated between Tynemouth and North Shields, this family-run business has, for years, been a treasure trove for those seeking decorative salvage, vintage gems, and intriguing antiquities. Now, the owner of this beloved shop is embarking on an exciting new chapter, branching out into the world of auctions with the upcoming launch of The Auction House on Tynemouth Road. This venture promises to bring a fresh dynamic to the local antiques scene, offering a new platform for buying and selling cherished items.
The new venture is taking shape, promising to bring the thrill of the auction house to the local community. I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Max and Matty, his business partner, to delve into their journey and what we can expect from their new endeavour.
Our conversation began with the buzz of activity surrounding their opening. “It’s been quite good, really,” Max reveals, explaining the influx of items and curious visitors. It is clear there is already a strong local interest, with people dropping in to browse and even bringing in their own treasures for evaluation.
Max’s journey into the world of antiques is far from traditional. It all started with car boot sales alongside his sister, which soon evolved into a solo venture. “I was almost making as much money doing car boots as I was a full-time job,” he recalls with a chuckle. This was back in the days before the internet, relying on publications like “Loot” and even a bit of “skip diving” to source unique finds. A career move brought him to the North East, putting his passion on hold until a decade ago when shows like “Salvage Hunters” reignited his spark.
“I said to my wife I wanted to quit the career I’ve been in for 16 years and do something,” says Max. What started as buying and selling a few items online evolved into the purchase of the very shop that would become Huscrofts. It seems fate played a hand, as Max had admired the building years prior, mistaking it for an antique shop when it was a pawnbroker. I point out that it sounded like it was meant to be.”I guess so I suppose, maybe it is fate, I don’t know,” says Max.
The name “Huscrofts” carries a personal touch, honouring Max’s wife’s family. “Her family did a lot for me and I wanted the name to continue,” he explains. It’s this personal connection that adds a unique charm to the business..
Matty joined the team nearly two years ago, bringing his experience in auctions, house clearances and a shared passion for antiques. “We started doing house clearances together,” Matty explains, “We were two separate businesses but worked well with each other” It was this partnership that eventually led to the idea of an auction house. “I think the way that we’re going, we should have an auction house now,” Max recalls Matty suggesting, leading them to explore potential auction venues.
Max already owned a second property nearby which he primarily used for storage until it became an extension of his antique shop. It is these premises that are now going to be used as The Auction House.
The upcoming auction, scheduled for June 2nd, is generating significant excitement. This will be preceded by a 2-week viewing period where potential buyers can attend the auction house and view items that they may want to bid for. Both Max and Matty are keen to make the experience accessible to everyone, not just seasoned collectors. “We are purposely trying to make it accessible for everybody,” they both emphasize, referring to what they call a “newbie tab” on their website explaining the process for first-time buyers and sellers. They aim to recreate the buzz of traditional auctions, where people gather in a room, rather than relying solely on online bidding. Matty tells me that some auction houses have lost that feeling of excitement of attending a live auction because of people just sitting at home submitting bids whilst the auction is ongoing. “But we’ve got no internet as such to allow for live bidding to take place,” Matty confirms, emphasizing their commitment of providing an in-person experience.
Sustainability is also an important aspect of the business. “The industry is very environmentally friendly,” Max states, highlighting the value of quality, second-hand items that are built to last. Both Max and Matty lament the disposable nature of modern society, contrasting it with the enduring appeal of well-made antiques.
As our conversation draws to a close, we discuss the practicalities of running an auction house, from cataloguing items to handling payments. Max and Matty are committed to transparency and fairness, aiming to offer competitive commission rates. They’re also planning valuation days, including one at the North Shields Marina, to encourage people to bring in their treasures for appraisal.
Max and Matty are building more than just an auction house; it will be a community hub, a place where history, passion, and a love for unique finds come together. As Max puts it, “I can say with hand on heart that having the antique shop has been a lifestyle business for me. It’s just been a pleasure, you know?”
With 340 items already catalogued, there’s plenty to see. From Victorian silver to box lots of records, the variety is impressive. Max and Matty are actively taking in consignments, so the collection is sure to grow.
Having met and chatted with Max and Matty it is abundantly clear that The Auction House is more than just a business venture. It’s a labour of love, a celebration of history, and a testament to the enduring appeal of unique and well-loved items. “It’s exciting,” Max admits, “but it’s a bit nerve wracking as well.”
North Shields, get ready to bid!
More information: https://theauctionhousenorthshields.co.uk/
