Nick Powner and son James have bought the freehold of the building at Emsworth Road, Lymington (pictured above), renaming it Lymington Auctions with the first sale planned for July. The building has been an auction house for more than half a century.
Powner, who will continue to run his dealing business Abbey Models, hopes to take on one of the former Kidner employees and hire an extra member of staff.
Sales will be taken by auctioneer Jim Chamberlain, who is a consultant.
Powner said: “We have taken over lock, stock and barrel. We plan between 10 and 12 auctions next year and will sell similar items to George Kidner.” He will try to focus on single-owner sales and also hopes to develop a business in cars and automobilia next year.
The adjacent antiques centre will open with room for up to 30 dealers. Seven have signed up so far.
Powner added: “We have had a good response from local people already. Many are just relieved the 1920s building hasn’t been sold to a developer and that it will remain an auction house.”
