For over 45 years, The Bradford Exchange has been providing collectors and gift buyers with unique and exclusive products that are not found anywhere else. The company has built a reputation for quality and innovation, producing items that are visually stunning, emotionally engaging, and steeped in meaning.
From its humble beginnings in Chicago during the 1970s, The Bradford Exchange has grown into one of the largest and most respected collectible companies in the world, with a vast network of loyal customers and an expansive product line spanning several categories.
The company’s journey started when J. Roderick MacArthur, a noted philanthropist and entrepreneur, launched a mail-order business called The Bradford Gallery in 1973. The company specialized in art prints, featuring works by famous painters such as Norman Rockwell and Thomas Kinkade.
Soon after, the company expanded into other categories, including collectible figurines, jewelry, and home decor. In 1975, the company changed its name to The Bradford Exchange, and in 1981, it launched its first-ever limited edition collector’s plate, featuring a depiction of the iconic painting “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci.
Over the years, The Bradford Exchange has earned numerous accolades and awards for its products, including the prestigious Artist of the Year Award, given to artists who create exceptional work based on popular themes and subjects. The company’s collectible figurines are also considered some of the finest in the market, capturing the essence of beloved characters from popular movies, TV shows, and books.
One of the signature features of The Bradford Exchange’s products is that they are often issued in limited editions, making them highly collectible and valuable over time. The company produces many items in collaboration with famous artists, designers, and brands, such as Disney, Coca-Cola, and Elvis Presley.
For instance, one of the company’s best-selling products is the Disney “Forever In Love” Personalized Ring, which features a heart-shaped crystal that is set with a personalized engraving of a couple’s names. The ring is also adorned with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, making it a sentimental keepsake for Disney fans.
Another notable product is the Elvis Presley “All Shook Up” Collectible Plate, which celebrates the iconic rock ‘n’ roll legend with a vibrant illustration of Elvis on stage, surrounded by his adoring fans. The plate is crafted from high-quality porcelain and trimmed with a 22-karat gold edging, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
Apart from its collectibles, The Bradford Exchange also offers a wide range of gifts and personalized items that cater to every occasion and recipient. These include jewelry, fashion accessories, home decor, and specialty gifts for holidays like Christmas and Easter.
For instance, the company’s Personalized Birthstone Bracelet is a popular choice for mothers and grandmothers, as it features the birthstones of their children and grandchildren, arranged in a graceful design. The bracelet is also engraved with their names and birthdates, making it a cherished family heirloom.
In summary, The Bradford Exchange is a company that has carved a niche in the collectibles and gifts market through its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. The company’s products are not just beautiful, but they also have a deep emotional and cultural resonance that connects with people on a personal level. With its extensive product line and global reach, The Bradford Exchange has become a household name for collectors and gift buyers around the world, and its legacy shows no signs of slowing down.