Peekays was founded by Paul Kornmehl in 1973 and his daughters, Anita and Yvonne, took over the business in the 1990s.
Jim Kornmehl, managing director Peekays Findings, said, “With Anita Kornmehl passing some five years ago, the family recently decided that the business needs to be taken forward by the industry leader, Australian Jewellers Supplies.”
He described AJS as “the perfect choice” as they are also a family-owned business, with more than 50 years in the industry. “With nationally located branches, highly experienced staff and a wonderful online platform, AJS will certainly take Peekays to the next level,” Kornmehl added.
Selwyn Brandt, director AJS, said, “Peekays has been one of AJS’ key suppliers for many years, and we have always enjoyed a wonderful working relationship. [The take over] was first discussed a few years ago and since then it has evolved organically to where it was a natural decision for both parties.
“We plan to continue the amazing legacy that Peekays has created over the last 40-plus years as the premier supplier of quality jewellery findings in Australia. Customers will still be able to deal with Peekays staff as they always have, however there will be the opportunity for existing and new Peekays customers to access their product range through our national branch network and website.
“As we are also a long-standing, family-owned and operated business, we put the highest value in our customers and will continue to offer them a personalised high level of service.”
Kornmehl added, “We think that this positive change will be better for Peekays’ customers, and they will also be happy to hear that current employee Raymond Tran will continue to take their orders and that Peekays’ phone, email and website will still operate as it does now.”
Peekays will be closed for stocktake from 14–15 September, and will reopen on 16 September under AJS management; some minor delays may occur on orders made during this period.