Gold coin retail in international finals

Its unique proposition of selling coins in malls in the UK, just as it does in South Africa, attracted the nomination, having opened its second store in Bluewater, Kent and five stores in South Africa this year. Six more planned for next year.

"We attracted the limelight because we are the world's only retail chain of coin shops, with a total of 25 outlets. The judges recognised the success we have achieved in taking this concept to the man in the street," says Alan Demby, the executive chairman.

More than 7000 people attended the MAPIC Fair, among them 2000 retailers and hundreds of property developers, including delegates from France, Italy, the UK, Belgium, Russia, Spain, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands and Turkey.

"If there is one product that is universal and can be understood internationally, it's gold. The Krugerrand from South Africa and the Maple Leaf gold coins from Canada are world brands that are traded internationally. We hope to create a secure and friendly environment where people can view coins at their leisure and start becoming collectors via our international Scoin Shop brand," he concludes.