About
The Philatelic Traders’ Society was formed in 1929 by a group of established stamp dealers who wished to found a society which would act for, and on behalf of its members, for the greater good of philately. The first Chairman was Albert H. Harris who had established a highly successful publishing company producing, amongst its range, specialist albums and accessories.
The Secretary of the newly formed PTS was Vera Trinder, who in turn took over the business founded by Albert H. Harris. The Philatelic Traders Society was incorporated as a Limited Company on the 14th. September 1946. Early on the Society began organising trade bourses, and these developed into the well-known Stampex exhibitions.
The direction of the Society is in the hands of the Council, a body formed by usually twelve Members who are elected annually. From their ranks are chosen the Chairman, Vice Chairman and Treasurer who act as officers of the Society. The decisions and requirements of the Council, along with the day-to-day functions, are implemented by the Secretary.
All Members of the Society are subject to the approval of the PTS Council and its membership. Applicants must provide references which are rigorously checked, and only when the Council is satisfied are they affiliated. Each Member agrees to abide by a Code of Conduct and the Articles of Association. Complaints and disputes between collectors, dealers and Members are taken up by the Society, and this is the Guarantee of Integrity extended to all those who deal with PTS Members.
Our reputation for honesty, integrity and professionalism spans the globe, and the PTS shield is instantly recognised by collectors.
OUR TEAM
The PTS & Stampex is run by the PTS Council, and the PTS Team on behalf of our Members.
SIMON CARSON
Chair
Simon become Chair in 2021. He has been in the trade since the 90s as the owner of Philangles Limited based in the UK. His steer of the PTS continues to futureproof the society through robust professional practices, innovation, and global collaboration.
IAIN MURPHY
Vice Chair
Iain become Vice Chair of the PTS 2024. Iain started his philatelic career in 2007 and brings a wealth of experience not just in the auction space, but in learnings from wider collectible markets. Iain is now Managing Director of Stanley Gibbons Baldwin's. He champions authenticity and trust as key attributes of PTS Membership.
MARK BLOXHAM
Treasurer
Mark Bloxham, owner of Mark Bloxham Stamps, is one of the longest standing PTS Council Members and has helped steer the PTS and Stampex through many years of change. Mark helps ensure the PTS's finances are in a strong position and that we can continue to invest in the right projects for our members, the society, and the hobby.
SUZANNE RAE
Managing Director
Suzanne joined the PTS in 2016 as Art Stamped and took her first stand at Stampex. She joined Council and become Chair in 2018, bringing experiences from 15+ years in Management and IT Consulting. In 2021, she took on the role of Managing Director of the PTS and is responsible for the day to day management of the society and team, including specialist contractors.