TV star James Constantinou, who shot to fame on Channel 4’s Posh Pawn, has reported an influx of customers selling the antiques which won’t fit in their suitcase.
The cost of living crisis, stagnant job market and the promise of better work-life balance are just some of the factors enticing his clients to move countries.
James, the owner of pawnbroker chain Prestige Pawn, revealed: “I have noticed a stark increase in people selling their valuables which they cannot take to their new home.
“Some antiques are too costly or problematic when it comes to shipping. Clients are choosing to sell off items as opposed to transport them and are raising substantial sums which they can put towards travel costs or furnishing their new home.
“Others are simply selling their handbags or jewellery in order to pay for the cost of relocating.
““It has become a real phenomenon in the past few months. Brits are getting fed up with this ongoing cost of living crisis and are seeking more security and long term certainty.
“We have been inundated with various valuables.”
Most British expats are moving to English-speaking countries, such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, or sunny European destinations like Spain and Portugal.
The leading pawnbroker added: “Never have we seen before such a huge exodus in respect of people wanting to leave the UK and begin again in another country.
“We are hearing the same story day after day. The uncertainty and taxation changes are forcing entrepreneurs to look abroad where they may receive more favourable tax breaks and a more optimistic forecast going forward.”
Constantinou currently runs eight Prestige Pawn stores across the country, four of which are in London. The business, which brought a premium approach to the traditional pawnbroking industry, has become a multi-million-pound enterprise.
TV show Posh Pawn ran for seven series, proving a fly-on-the-wall view of James’ revolutionary take on high-end pawnbroking and the astonishing items he was offered, from a mini submarine, planes and yachts to a Swarovski crystal drum kit used on a Kylie Minogue tour.
James and Posh Pawn became the go to place of choice when it came to high net worth individuals wanting to raise extra money fast or dispose of their luxury goods.
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