One of North West's last remaining trophy shops stays in family as owner hands keys over to son
By Matthew Hancock-Bruce 13th Apr 2026
The owner of one of the region's last remaining trophy shops is preparing to hand over the keys.
Sam Baker is calling time on his working life after 25 years in charge of Olympus Trophies on Duke Street in Macclesfield.
His son, Thierry Bondolfi, will take the reins, ushering in a new era for the business, which attracts customers from across the North West, including neighbouring Stockport and Congleton.
"I'm really happy to know it will be in safe hands going forward," said Sam, 64.
Olympus Trophies dates back to 1978, with Sam taking over the business in November 2000.
Over the next few months, Sam will be showing 31-year-old Thierry the ropes.
A key part of their work involves supporting local schools, sports clubs and community groups, many of whom are volunteer led.
"It's great to work with these people that give up their time and energy to run all of these wonderful little clubs and societies that knit our community together," Sam said.
"They are all so passionate about what they do, and they give up inordinate amounts of their time.
"So, it is great to be able to support them in any way we can."
The business had been up for sale for around three years when Thierry mentioned that if he had the money, he would buy it for himself.
Keen to see it stay in the family, Sam was more than happy to hand over the keys.
"I couldn't have wished for a better outcome," said Sam.
"He's got a lot of plans but plenty to learn about the business itself in terms of managing the cashflow. It was a good couple of years before I got the knack of it!"
Once Thierry is up to scratch, Sam will be undoing the ropes to his canal boat and sailing off into the sunset.
He said: "I spent 20 years working in various parts of the globe, doing various different jobs.
"I woke up one day and thought, I don't know my own country that well.
"I was thinking of doing it in a campervan but battling with the roads and all the potholes, I thought maybe the canal would be calmer!"
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