Gift Focus - Jul/Aug 2019 (Issue 114)

62 Putting the pieces together This issue, we spoke to Kate Gibson, managing director of Gibsons and great-granddaughter of the company’s founder, about centenary celebrations When and why was the company founded? We were founded in 1919 by my great-grandfather who was looking for a business opportunity after World War I. How does it feel to be 100? Really exciting! We have been talking about our centenary and planning celebrations for what feels a long time, so it’s fantastic to finally be here. I feel in awe of all of those who came before us who got us to where we are today, as well as hugely proud of what we have achieved and how the current Gibsons team is taking us forward. There’s a real buzz and momentum about the future. Tell us a little bit about your product offering. We produce games and puzzles for all generations, including classic games such as Pass the Bomb and 221B Baker Street and puzzles for pre-schoolers up to puzzles containing 2,000 pieces. Recently added to the range are puzzles for younger adults. Design- and trend-led images and themes are meeting the demand of those who perhaps want to take some time to switch off from technology and enjoy the relaxing benefits puzzles can bring. Following soon will be jigsaws for those living with dementia. We are proud that our 1,000-piece puzzles have the thickest board in the UK market, and we work hard to ensure the quality of our products meets consumer expectations. Our products bring people together; there’s nothing like sitting around a table and playing a game or doing a puzzle. “Our values are at the core of everything we do, and our heritage is very much part of that. Quality and service have always been at the forefr ont of how we conduct business, and that hasn’t changed. ”