Reading Time: 3 Minutes
50 years in business is a big milestone for any company. The Harris family owners and staff of Gordon Harris are extremely proud that their business has not only survived five decades but grown from humble beginnings to become NZ’s largest and best-known art supplies specialist.
Gordon and Ann Harris first established their art supplies business in a small shop at Greenwoods Corner in Auckland in 1975. Gordon already had many years of experience supplying the needs of professional design, advertising and art studios. He believed an outlet that supplied quality artists' materials to professionals and the public was required.
Gordon & Ann Harris
Gordon Harris Art Supplies thrived and soon moved to larger premises at 4 Gillies Avenue in Newmarket, where they are still located. In 1991 Gordon took up the opportunity to purchase Littlejohns, a long-standing art and graphic supplies business in Wellington. The Littlejohns name was changed to Gordon Harris in 2003.
Outside Gordon Harris Newmarket, circa early 1980s.
There is no doubt that great products and materials help inspire artists and to better service the growing number of art and design students at the University of Auckland, AUT and other inner city colleges Gordon Harris opened their Symonds Street store in 2000. This was followed by new stores in Albany, Hamilton and Christchurch. In 2007 Studio Art Supplies, started by John Woodruffe in the 1970s, joined the Gordon Harris family. The store still runs under the Studio Art Supplies name in Grey Lynn. Evan Woodruffe continues to be closely involved with the store and the Gordon Harris brand today.
Inside Gordon Harris Newmarket, in the early 1980s.
Talented and dedicated staff have played an enormous part in the Gordon Harris success. The team, comprised of artists and designers, bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every situation to you know no matter the question, they'll be able to help.
Gordon Harris - The Art & Graphic Store is proudly New Zealand-owned and operated by the Harris family. Graeme, Caren and Bruce Harris are committed to Gordon's original vision for the business: To deliver quality products, value for money and professional, knowledgeable and friendly service.
"As we celebrate 50 years in business, we acknowledge our wonderful staff, both current and past, and thank our valued and creative customers for being an essential part of our journey, over many years, even decades. We are deeply grateful to have played a role in the development of New Zealand’s artistic and creative communities, not just through making art and design materials from around the world easily and affordably available, but also through sponsoring and encouraging art and art and design education over many years."
CEO/Director - Graeme Harris
(From Left) Bruce, Caren and Graeme Harris are the 2nd Generation owners and managers of Gordon Harris Ltd.
Explore the extensive range of products online or in-store today and find your inspiration!
Gordon Harris - 4 Gillies Avenue
For more news, click here.
Tags:
