National Pawnbrokers' Association

The National Pawnbrokers' Association was established in Derby in 1892 in response to a growing need, widely recognised among pawnbrokers, for a national body to represent their interests. Alfred Hardaker, a leading campaigner on behalf of pawnbrokers, was appointed the first president. However, the original financial arrangements and rules were not thought satisfactory and the NPA was therefore reconstituted in London in 1895, with Henry Attenborough as chairman. The Association attempted to persuade increasing numbers of pawnbrokers to insure their premises and stock; to defend its members in legal actions; and to secure revisions of the Parliamentary legislation regulating pawnbroking. The Pawnbroking Acts of 1922 and 1960 were passed as a direct result of NPA pressure.

In 1925, the Association acquired Lombard House, Little Britain, as its headquarters, where it remained until 1973, when the building was sold as part of a development scheme. It was subsequently administered from the home of the general secretary in Southend-on-Sea, and now operates from offices at 6 Wimpole Street.