At Corum, we’ve long admired the independent businesses that give Glasgow its character, those with deep roots, family stories and a genuine connection to the homes and communities they serve. Few reflect that heritage quite like John Dick & Son, a furniture retailer based in Carmunnock, whose story stretches back more than 70 years. From its beginnings in the 1950s antique trade to becoming a well-known destination for distinctive furniture, the business has evolved alongside the way Glaswegians live in their homes
We spoke to Bruce Dick about the origins of the business, how furniture retail has changed over the decades, and what home means in a city with such a strong sense of identity.
By
Halliday Hemings
“There are no rules; consumers don’t feel so restricted by specific genres and buy what they like.”
“There are no rules; consumers don’t feel so restricted by specific genres and buy what they like.”
Can you tell us about the origins of the business?
The business was founded in 1954 by my father. He was an antique dealer and travelled around the country buying antiques, bringing them back to The Peel, where they were bought mainly by dealers and shipped all over the world.
How has the business evolved over the decades?
My parents established “Dicks Barn” in Glasgow after my mother moved there following her marriage in 1967. They met when my father was buying antiques at her family’s antique business in Preston. Initially, the business specialised in high-quality traditional style “Reproduction Furniture,” primarily dining and occasional furniture made in the UK from Mahogany and Yewtree.
As the business grew, a large showroom was built on the site in 1980. The 1990s saw a successful shift toward importing furniture, which included antique-style chunky oak, traditional Louis Philippe cherry, and Art Deco styles from France.
In the 2000s, the choice of furniture styles available has expanded. There are no rules; consumers don’t feel so restricted by specific genres and buy what they like. People are happy to mix modern and traditional furniture together.
“We strive to source different furniture, better quality and more unusual.”
“We strive to source different furniture, better quality and more unusual.”
Looking ahead, what do you see shaping the next chapter for furniture retail in Glasgow?
There is so much choice out there. We strive to source different furniture, better quality and more unusual. It’s risky buying furniture online; in the showroom you can see the scale, colours and comfort. Furniture retail is not just about the products you sell; it’s about being able to inspire your customers and having experienced staff to help them find the correct items to furnish their home.
What major furniture trends have you witnessed over the decades?
There’s been a significant shift over the years, not just in tastes, but in how people live in their homes. Previously, some homes featured a dedicated dining room, a formal living room and many items or ornaments for display. Now, people often eat in the kitchen, and their living area might contain only a large sofa, a coffee table and a television, with minimal clutter.
This change has led to a reduced demand for cabinet furniture. Instead, the sofa is a priority, and the kitchen dining table must be multi-functional, serving not only for meals but also as a workstation.
What role does Glasgow’s character play in the business?
Glaswegians appreciate good value, quality and honesty; they are loyal and love an independent family business. Often, people have special pieces they inherited from their family. Given the legacy of the shipyards, there is definitely an appreciation of fine cabinet making.