Travelling Auctioneers: The Hit BBC Show Bringing Auctions to Your Doorstep
The Rise of Travelling Auctioneers
The hit BBC daytime series, The Travelling Auctioneers, produced by STV Studios Factual, has returned to screens on Monday 6 January, marking a significant moment for the auction industry. The programme exemplifies a growing trend in the auction sector: bringing professional services directly to people’s homes rather than requiring them to visit traditional auction houses.
The new, 20-episode series sees the gang split off into pairs and take their travelling auction house and workshop out on the road across the UK. This mobile approach to auctioneering reflects broader changes in the industry, where convenience and accessibility have become paramount to success.
New Faces Join the Team
The TA family will be joined on the road by a brand new crew made up of two charismatic auctioneers – James “JB” Broad and Briony “Bee” Harford – and two talented restorers – Lauren Wood and Saf Fäkir. These additions bring fresh expertise and energy to the established format, which has resonated with viewers since its launch in 2022.
Speaking about joining the cast, James said: “The chance to travel and meet incredible people while uncovering the stories behind their cherished possessions is something truly magical. The programme’s success demonstrates that personal connection remains vital even as the auction industry embraces technological innovation.
Mobile Auctions: A Growing Trend
The concept of travelling auctioneers reflects a significant shift in how auction services are delivered. The auction services market was valued at approximately USD 10.5 billion in 2022, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% projected from 2023 to 2028. This growth is driven by the increasing popularity of online and mobile auction platforms.
Sifting through one family home at a time, the team must first identify the items with the biggest selling appeal. Izzie, JB and Bee then call on their auctioneer contacts and expertise, while JJ, Robin, Lauren and Saf use their incredible craft and restoration skills to bring new life to neglected treasures. This approach combines traditional auctioneering expertise with on-location convenience, offering families an accessible way to monetise unwanted items.
The Future of Auction Services
The travelling auctioneer model represents more than entertainment—it signals the evolution of the auction industry. The auction industry is experiencing a dynamic transformation, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and the need for transparency and trust. By embracing online auctions, advanced technologies, mobile bidding, and personalized experiences, auction houses are staying ahead of the curve.
As The Travelling Auctioneers continues to engage viewers across the UK, it highlights how combining traditional expertise with modern, mobile approaches can revitalise interest in auctions. For families with hidden treasures gathering dust, the show demonstrates that professional auction services are now more accessible than ever, bringing the auction house directly to their door.