Plymouth jewellers, Drakes are today celebrating John Hirshman winning the Lifetime Achievement Award at a glittering local event. The managing director was presented with the accolade at the Plymouth Business Awards on Friday 17th May in front of hundreds of local business people.
John officially joined the team in 1954 before taking over the reins as Managing Director in 1975. Today John has handed over the day to day running of the business to his children, Andrew and Monique, and the first director outside of the family, Jennifer Manning.
William Telford, Plymouth Herald’s Business Editor, commented on the win: “John Hirshman is a true veteran of the Plymouth business scene and a worthy recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. He has steered one of Plymouth’s best known, and best-loved, independent retailers, Drakes, though various economic cycles for decades. John joined the firm, started by his father Harry Hirshman when he was just 15 years old, and took control of the business in 1975, seamlessly handing the reigns to his children Monique and Andrew Hirshman.
During the past five decades Drakes has grown to become one of the most successful independent retailers in the region. Plymouth Live, The Herald and Western Morning News have all tracked its success over the years. This sustained success, and John’s dynamism and sheer hard work over that period makes him the standout candidate for this award.”
Monique and Andrew Hirshman were bursting with pride when John was announced as this years winner.
Andrew Hirshman, Drakes director, commented: “I am so proud of Dad and everything he has worked for and achieved, he is a true gentleman in every sense of the word and I know how much this will mean to him, and to us all. It’s been a truly wonderful evening and celebration together, celebrating the best of business in this great city of ours!”
Monique Hirshman, Drakes Director, commented: “What a super evening it has been and I am so thrilled that Dad has been presented with the lifetime achievement award. He is such a supporter of this beautiful city we live in and has lived and breathed business all his life. Retirement is just not an option. Totally proud of you Dad, you always have been and always will continue to be my inspiration. Love you loads…”
