In a significant restructuring move, Bonhams, a prestigious and long-established auction house, has announced the closure of its Modern Sporting Gun Department.
The decision is expected to lead to redundancies within the department as the company aims to streamline its operations.
Lucinda Bredin, global director of communications at Bonhams, confirmed the restructuring efforts to Gun Trade Insider, stating, “Bonhams is streamlining its Modern Sporting Gun Department and will continue to offer the finest Sporting Guns within the existing sales of Antique Arms and Armour.”
From Bonhams’ point of view, it is thought that the move to integrate modern sporting guns into their broader antique arms and armour auctions will potentially broaden their appeal and simplifying their sales approach.
This organisational change is part of a larger trend within the auction industry, where companies are consolidating departments to enhance efficiency and adapt to evolving market demands.
If we look at this decision with our glass half full, Bonhams’ decision to merge modern sporting guns into their antique categories may attract a diverse clientele, merging traditional collectors with modern firearms enthusiasts.
As the auction house adapts to these changes, the impact on both the market and the collectors’ community will be closely watched.
www.bonhams.com