Additional Entries: If you would like to contact us about any 100+ year old independently owned Lancashire companies that could be added to this list, please email Profile@lancashire.gov.uk.
Preface
"In the future as in the past we shall do our best to continue, in spite of the difficult period we are all passing through, to give an unrivalled service."
Part of a 1951 advert for one of the long-established independent Lancashire firms that has traded through two world wars, the 1930s depression, the post war austerity years and today continues to exist as one of the 100+ year old independent Lancashire businesses listed in this article. It is not the type of 'Vision' statement that perhaps would go down well today, but it represents an attitude that was appropriate for the time; an honest approach that was good enough to ensure many years of profitable trading.
Contents
Section 1: Explanatory Text
1.1 Aims of the Article
1.2 Introduction
1.3 Criteria for Inclusion
Section 2: Economic Theory of Corporate Longevity
2.1 Theory of Corporate Longevity
2.2 Safe Business Sectors (Porter's Five Forces Model)
2.3 Negative Sides to Business Longevity
Section 3: Chronological List of Companies
3.1 List of Companies
3.2 Contact Details for Submitting Companies to the List
Section 4: Companies by Sector
4.1 Manufacturing and Construction Sector
4.2 Food and Drink Sector
4.3 Wholesale and Retail Sector
4.4 Financial and Business Services Sector
4.5 Transport Sector
4.6 Tourism Sector
4.7 Funeral Directors/Monumental Masons
4.8 Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing
Section 5: Selected Non-Independent Firms
5.1 Old Lancashire Firms Now Part of Larger Organisations
5.2 Other Old Independent Firms
Section 1: Explanatory Text
1.1 Aims of This Article
The overall aim of this article is to highlight as many as possible of the large number of independent and predominantly family-owned Lancashire companies that have been trading for over 100 years. At the same time, it is useful to try and identify some common themes that may indicate why these firms have managed to survive for so long.
In 2009, five Lancashire firms were highlighted as achieving the goal of 100 years in trading, but for 2010, only two independent firms Mahood Brothers and Ashlea Ltd were known to have reached a century of trading. No companies were identified as celebrating their centenary in 2011 and only Morris Quality Bakers in Coppull has so far been identified as a local independent business that should soon achieve this milestone.
As the 100-year anniversary of the start of the First World War approaches, there appears to be fewer local independent firms expected to reach this landmark. The economic, social and political environment that faces a firm within the first few formative years of trading affects the chances of that business reaching a mature age. It now seems likely that it will not be until 2019 when a number of old independent Lancashire firms should together celebrate a centenary of trading.
1.2 Introduction
Lancashire residents are able to purchase an enormously wide variety of everyday products and services from local firms that are over 100 years old and which retain local independent ownership. In the County it is possible to save or take out a mortgage, sell a house and employ a removals firm, shop in large modern foodstores, book a holiday and be taken to the airport, catch a bus, have a glass of beer, purchase a range of locally-made food products, buy furniture, toys, hardware, jewellery etc., stay in a hotel, or have a day out at a major Theme Park, and on each occasion use a Lancashire business that is over 100 years old.
Lancashire has a solicitors firm that claims to be the oldest family firm of solicitors in which the original founding family has maintained its involvement throughout the company's history.
Britain's last Temperance Bar is still trading in the county, whilst in contrast Lancashire has a wine merchants business that is considered by many experts across the country to be an absolute gem. You can even have a website designed by a Lancashire company that is well over 100 years old.
Mention must also be made of a Lancashire soap manufacturer that was founded in Belarus in the 19th Century. The company managed to survive two forced moves as a result of the Russian Revolution and the need to leave Berlin in 1937 before finally settling in Chorley in 1938.
Even in today's fast moving commercial environment, there is plenty of room for well-managed local companies that know how to satisfy their customers and which have amassed a large amount of what accountants officially term as 'Goodwill'.
Many of these companies do not operate in safe business segments where barriers to market entry for new firms are high and competition is limited, but have managed to carve their own particular niches in some of the most competitive business sectors around.
Economic strategy documents often extol the virtues of increasing the number of new businesses, however Lancashire does not have impressive rates of new business start-ups as measured by the VAT/PAYE active enterprise results. The long-term pattern is of the Lancashire business stock growing at a very much slower pace than the national average. Paragraph 2.1 of this article also touches on the low survival rates for new businesses. These two and other factors such as levels of Gross Value Added and Household Incomes combine to present a negative picture of the Lancashire economy. The County certainly faces a number of economic challenges, but one somewhat neglected aspect of the Lancashire economy is the fact that it has an impressive collection of long-established and independently owned businesses that make a major contribution to local employment and help to underpin local pride and promote local patronage.
Lancashire was at the forefront of the industrial revolution and in comparison to other parts of the country has a bias towards older companies. In terms of long-established independent firms that have been trading through good and bad economic times the County has an impressive record.
At the time these old established firms first began trading, they did not have the range of business support services available to today's new starters, nor were they counted as contributing to business start-up target figures or their employees recorded as successful employment placement outcomes. In mitigation to this rather light-hearted statement, it has to be said that today's new businesses are likely to benefit from all the useful help that they can get just to survive the first year in business.
In general, prosperity is increasing each year and many new customers are beginning to seek out local suppliers that offer something a bit different. Those well-established local firms that have a long history of driving up quality and not just driving down price are now in a strong position to tap in to the desire to move away from the standardised offerings from much larger businesses.
Together these Lancashire firms provide employment for thousands of people in Lancashire, and together have products and reputations that are well-known beyond the County. This article celebrates their long-standing success and continued independence.
1.3 Criteria for Inclusion
The following represents a list of criteria that ideally need to be satisfied in full for inclusion in this article.
- the company's head office is in the 14-authority Lancashire area;
- the company is independent and not owned by a larger commercial organisation;
- the company offers a product or service to the public or other businesses;
- the company has an uninterrupted trading history in excess of 100 years that does not include any period in public ownership (e.g., former local authority bus companies) or any other form of non-fully commercial status;
- the company maintains an active website that hopefully includes historical details, and which confirms its continued existence as an independent entity.
Criterion number two presents the most difficulty and some of the companies may be run by individuals who have business interests in other firms, but the essence is that they are not run by larger trading companies. For this reason Surridge Sport in Burnley, which can trace its history back to 1867 but is now one of three trading brands of the SDL Group formed in 1977, is not included. Also Cookson & Clegg in Blackburn (started in 1860) now seems to be part of a larger organisation. Applying this particular criterion does highlight a number of difficult grey areas. Other firms have crept in to the main list when perhaps they should not have been included. A company website may imply a firm is independent, but at a later date the website of their parent company may come to light and a different picture is presented.
In 2007, a company that was previously had an entry in the main list 'Vernon Carus' was taken over by Synergy Healthcare.
Firms that have been through financial difficulties, but have continued to trade pose a particular problem. Should the fact that Roach Bridge Tissues being forced to enter administration in 2000 detract from the fact that it has a trading history that began in 1875, and is still run by a family firm? It is a fine line on occasion between including or excluding a company from the main list, and whilst this firm does not have a main entry, some in similar circumstances have been included.
Please see Section 5.1 for examples of old Lancashire firms that are now part of much larger organisations.
The final criterion has not been applied in all cases, but websites easily allow facts to be verified and there is a very strong preference for including companies with their own sites. There is not enough time to undertake in-depth academic research to publish this list of firms therefore there has to be a large amount of reliance on easily accessible published data from the businesses themselves.
There are a number of other Lancashire firms that probably could be included in this list, but without websites, the limited amount of information available on their age and ownership status is time-consuming to verify therefore they have at present been withheld from the list. Even with this relatively cautious approach to including companies, there is still a chance that errors have arisen and these will be corrected as they come to light.
There are business areas such as semi and professional football clubs, other sport-related clubs and societies, trade associations etc., which have been in existence for over a century. It is difficult to know exactly where to draw the boundary for what to include and exclude. In general terms the emphasis has been given to include businesses that operate in what the average person would consider is a normal commercial environment.
The final part of this article mentions some well-known Lancashire firms that have been in existence for over 100 years, but are now part of much larger organisations. This short additional list emphasises the fact that a loss of local ownership does not have to lead to the loss of a famous old Lancashire brand and that these firms remain important employers in the County.
Section 2: Economic Theory of Corporate Longevity
2.1 Theory of Corporate Longevity
The main activities of most firms have been possible only since the industrial revolution, but some old firms may originate from long-established sectors such as agriculture, hotels, the building trade and solicitors. In general terms it is unusual for a firm to be in existence for a long period of time therefore these long-established Lancashire firms are somewhat special.
Many large firms disappear each year as a result of merger, acquisition, bankruptcy or break-up. For small companies, the market is even less forgiving and the first year is usually the hardest. It is for this reason that it is worth considering long-established Lancashire firms and try and see if there are any common themes that point to their success and continued existence.
Lancashire Profile website contains a report on VAT/PAYE business survival rate and there is a complementary article on the age of businesses.
There are a number of academic articles that consider the secrets of long-term business survival. A selection of the most important factors include the following:
- Firms run by generations of the same family.
- Firms must avoid being torn apart by feuding heirs, therefore unity and trust in the family are vital
- Take on new managers if there are no appropriate family members to take over the business.
- By the end of each generation, family firms need to have built enough business acumen, trust and financial strength so that the next generation has the determination and resources to take the business forward.
- Firms have had to evolve to keep pace with the times, but also have a strong sense of their identity. Need a good grasp of the firm's core competence, but they must also be sensitive to every change in their environment and respond to changes in the political, technical or competitive climate.
- Companies need a store of their own cash and avoid a heavy reliance on borrowed money.
- They did to tolerate people who try to do things a little differently.
- Companies that are aware of the outside world can still be at their peak many years from now.
The above list emphasises the importance of continued family ownership and this is one of the most striking factors amongst Lancashire's long-term independent survivors. An analysis of the Lancashire firms highlights the following common themes and important issues:
- A commitment to continued family ownership. In the case of Moorhouse, the breakdown of this tradition almost led to the collapse of the firm.
- Solicitors firms are well represented in this list of companies and in their case the continuity of family ownership is replaced by a continuity developed by the introduction of new partners.
- There are however examples of family firms being bought out by new owners or taken over by company managers in position at the time. The example of Samuel Cooke & Co. seems to have been one of senior employers within the firm gradually taking over as family involvement appears to have declined over the years.
- A vision that may be summed up in a particular sentence that is as relevant today as it was when the firm originally started trading. Otherwise the vision may be more implicit in the proud history of the business, which is strong enough to see it through the good times and the bad.
- Strong local and even national brands that have created loyalty amongst the general public or business customers that offer some advantage over larger competitors in the same sectors.
- Although they have all had to move with the times, most are still predominantly doing what they have always done with some tweaking of the product range and taking onboard modern business practices. On the whole the firms have stayed true to their original business model, however some have moved in to important new additional areas such as Leyprint. Mitchells no longer brew beer but instead concentrate on managing their pubs and hotels. On the other hand Moorhouses began by producing Hop Bitters that were low in alcohol, and deemed to be "non-intoxicating liquours" but is now brews a range of alcoholic beers.
- Althams Catering Butchers in the mid-70s saw a decline in retail trade and decided to expanded further into the catering sector and move in to markets further afield.
- John Spencer Textiles, after a major period of trading difficulties in the '70s, decided that the new business model would concentrate on a wide range of fabrics, but not more than 10% of any one particular type of cloth to avoid an over reliance on a small number of large buyers who were increasingly sourcing their products from cheaper options abroad.
- Gillibrand started building horse-drawn carts and the firm had its own wheelwrights shop and blacksmiths forge, but nowadays undertakes the repair of motor vehicles as well as repairing and painting of large commercial vehicles.
- AMA Dataset has been involved in typesetting and printing over the past 150 years, but printing was discontinued in the 1980s. The company has moved with the times to provide a specialist typesetting, database design and consultancy service for publishers and other organisations and nowadays relies on an associate company in India for assistance with larger projects.
- James Proctor commenced trading with the idea for stoking boilers automatically, yet nowadays the emphasis on energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the company is committed to produce biomass and renewable energy combustion systems.
- Roberts & Co has always been involved in the tea and coffee trade but has developed its markets over time with shifting economic patterns. From its original Liverpool base, servicing major maritime- based customers was an important market. The decline of port activities led to a focus on the Catering trade and the company also moved on to establishing speciality tea and coffee shops.
- Moving with the times is probably best expressed by viewing the website of Winter & Kidson Multimedia. This is a multimedia group where their original work areas of artwork and photography have now moved on to encompass areas such as web design.
- Whittle Movers Group expanded its services to cover not just household removals but now also office, commercial and public service removals.
- Thwaites Brewery is a Public Limited Company and the shares held by board members preclude a hostile takeover. The list does not appear to contain any company that could fall to a hostile bid.
- A number of firms mention that they remain close to, or occupy the original site where the firm was founded (see section 2.3).
2.2 Safe Business Sectors (Porter's Five Forces Model)
To try and understand how these businesses have survived for so long it is worth considering the market sectors in which they operate in terms of Michael Porter's fives forces model. This is a useful model that helps to analyse the competitive environment of a particular industrial sector. It is not the intention in this article to go in to detail about the model but just to list the main headings and consider their implications on the firms.
The five forces are summed up under the following headings:
- Competitive Rivalry
- Power of suppliers
- Power of buyers
- Threats of substitutes
- Threat of new entrants
Solicitors account for a number of the long-established Lancashire firms listed in this article. They operate in a long-established business sector where the factors highlighted in the Porter model work in their favour. Major multi-national competitors in the local economy are not apparent therefore competition is mainly between a selection of small and medium-sized firms. Barriers to entry for new firms trying to establish themselves are high, and solicitors are not in a sector where powerful suppliers can squeeze their profit margins. Customers need to use their services and the threat of substitute products is limited to non-existent. It is also a sector not known for cut-throat price competition. It all adds up to almost perfect long-term trading conditions for firms.
Other business sectors that have a noticeable presence in the list of old established firms include Butchers, Jewellers, Hardware/ Building Supplies, Funeral Directors, Printing, Solid Fuels and Removals firms. Each has its own particular circumstances that lead to small independent firms finding their niche.
Many of the smaller retailers listed in this article would find most of the factors in the Porter model working against them. They compete against much larger rivals, they have only limited buying power over their suppliers, customers have a number of other choices, there is always the threat of new entrants to the market and of substitute products affecting profit margins.
A number manage to survive against much larger competitors due to loyal customers, personalised service and a large amount of local goodwill. These appear to be strong enough factors to resist the adverse market conditions that would stifle other new small local entrants to these sectors. These are the type of specialist local preferences and customer loyalty factors that counteract the pure economic logic expressed in the Porter model.
On the specific points raised by the model concerning the competitive conflict between buyers and suppliers it is useful to consider in particular the details provided for three of the Lancashire companies. John Spencer Textiles through bitter experience, now avoids an over reliance on a small number of large buyers whilst James Hall & Co stresses the importance of developing long lasting partnerships with its customers where both can successfully grow together. The foodstores operator Booths is proud to stress its long-standing tradition of sourcing products locally with at least 25% of its products at any one time locally produced. Dealing with these local suppliers can give the company some competitive edge and product differential when faced with the enormous buying power and competitive pressures from the likes of Tesco and Asda.
These examples emphasise a spirit of mutual support and partnership between buyers and suppliers that is somewhat removed from the model of economic dominance of one side over the other. Both sides need each other and this is perhaps especially true for small and medium-sized companies.
Perhaps Booths and Althams Travel are the best examples of medium-sized firms existing in highly competitive sectors that manage to survive against far larger multi-nationals. They are not of a scale to exert enormous power over their suppliers and price competition from bigger rivals is intense. Their reputations and customer focus mean that they can survive when the economic theory states that the market acting in a rational manner should lead to their demise. Local loyalty, personal service combined with running a well-managed business all add up over the long-term to creating the type of economic goodwill that allows them to survive.
2.3 Negative Sides to Business Longevity?
One final point to consider is does longevity matter? Should firms live fast and then be sold-off, taken over or wound-up at a young age?
In theory there could be negative sides to business longevity, if companies whose products have become obsolete have lost money in continuing trading when the business was no longer viable. The point of business is to create value and to do something useful, not just to survive to be a mediocre company that may actually stifle the creation of small companies that given a chance to establish themselves could be more competitive. It may alternatively be the case that better use could actually be made of their land or labour resources by other businesses in different commercial sectors.
Informal criticisms of Lancashire-based firms both old and new have revolved around the assertion that some are happy to stay within their comfort zones and not move on to achieve their full potential. Figures on the wealth creation in Lancashire as expressed by levels of gross value added reveal that, per head, the GVA rate in Lancashire is well below the UK average and that the differential has been growing over recent years.
It is a fact that a number of these firms were successfully trading at a time when today's multi-nationals in the same sectors had not even been created or were themselves still minor businesses, but if they had grown more rapidly over the years would that have led to them becoming more susceptible to becoming public traded companies and open to takeover?
Perhaps over the years a handful of these businesses could have achieved greater things and maybe their presence has been enough to inhibit one or two other local firms in these sectors from establishing themselves. This type of speculation is purely hypothetical, and what is certain is that these are companies with staying power and those type of businesses tend to be successful. They continue to satisfy their customers, have an important future role in the local economy even though many of these mature Lancashire companies are concentrated in market segments not known for high levels of Gross Value Added.
Low rates of new business formation in Lancashire, and above average levels of firms in relatively mature but often lower-value business sectors, are not signs of economic dynamism, but they do tend to encourage business longevity.
It is not all doom and gloom however, and the company websites for these old firms include examples of preferred supplier status to key multi-national organisations, and involvement in major projects. There are many examples of awards for business success amongst these established companies. A report that details the winners of the Queen's Awards for Enterprise in Lancashire reveals that three of these firms (one under its former name) have won awards for excellence in International Trade, of which one has won the award on three separate occasions.
Other firms contained in this list are proud of the awards that they have received over the years, including large firms such as EH Booth & Co. Ltd, and the smaller businesses such as D Byrne & Co, Roberts & Co and Fredericks Ice Cream Ltd.
A number of these long-established businesses mention the fact that they are still trading from, or close to, their original location. This raises the question whether their present site and/or building are appropriate for modern needs. Cherry Tree Machines is a company that has located to new purpose built premises over recent years close to the M65 motorway. The value of its former site in the Cherry Tree area of Blackburn was exploited to the full by its total redevelopment for upmarket housing.
This type of relocation is not uncommon but many of the old established are still trading from, or are close to their original sites. Over a long period of time, the suitability of particular buildings and the popularity of certain locations will change sometimes quite dramatically. Is the present site suitable for the amount of traffic generated, is it big enough, is it too old, is it still an area of town popular with shoppers or could better use be made of a sought after land asset and the firm relocate? Firms that have been around for many years may be faced with such issues that need to be addressed if they are to continue to prosper.
A Centenary Souvenir handbook dated 1951 for one of Lancashire's towns contains a number of commercial adverts from firms that were proud to display their dates of establishment. Many at the time had been trading for over 100 years, but even though they had survived depressions and world wars, the rapid pace of economic change in the second half of the 20th Century saw most of them disappear. This has not been the case for the firms listed in this article, and although the recent past has been a sustained period of economic growth, it is important to look at the long term. If one or two of these firms have reached a comfortable old age, then it has been a very tough road to get there and they are not likely to be found wanting if economic conditions take a turn for the worst.
Section 3: Chronological List of Companies
3.1 List of Companies
This is not a completely comprehensive list of local firms that have been in business for over 100 years. A number of firms that could be included have been identified via adverts etc, but without websites, details of ownership etc., are extremely limited. Each firm will be included when sufficient details come to light.
The name of the firms are listed in chronological order by date of establishment and are also listed in much more detail under broad industrial sector headings.
3.2 Contact Details for Submitting Companies to the List
It is in no way suggested that this list is totally comprehensive or that it does not perhaps contain some errors. If any reader is aware of companies that could be added to the list of firms in this article then please submit details to the email contact below. Please note that we are aware of a number of companies not on this list that are more than likely entitled to an entry but the lack of a website means that we have erred on the side of caution and not included their details. Verifiable information sources are important for including qualifying companies that do not maintain their own website.
Section 4: Companies by Sector
4.1 Manufacturing and Construction Sector
For an independently owned business to survive for more than 100 years in the manufacturing or construction sector is something of a major triumph. To find a business in the textiles sector that can trace its lineage back to the inventor of the Spinning Jenny and is still trading in Lancashire after all the enormous job losses in that sector over the years is remarkable. The following list does include a number of textile firms that are still independently owned which at first sight may be surprising given the ravages of global competition that the industry has and continues to face, but those that have survived have managed to find their niche and look forward to the future with confidence. Many other sectors are also covered confirming the fact that old established firms can survive and prosper in a range business areas.
AMA DataSet
50 School Lane
Bamber Bridge
Preston
PR5 6QE
Website www.ama.uk.com
Established c. 1855
Six generations of the Mather family have been involved in typesetting and printing over the past 150 years. Printing was actually discontinued in the 1980s, and AMA DataSet now provides a specialist typesetting, database design and consultancy service for publishers and other organisations throughout the UK.
The company's experienced team of typesetting operators, and database and systems designers are supported by its associate company Exeter Premedia Services in India, providing assistance to undertake the larger projects.
The management and conversion of digital data are at the heart of every business, and AMA DataSet pride themselves on being at the forefront of digital technology which, linked with a wide range of skills, meets the demands of today's markets.
Andrew Webron Ltd
Hareholme Mill
Bacup Road
Rawtenstall
BB4 7JL
Website www.andrewwebron.com
Established 1894
The company traces its roots back to when it started as a weaving operation. In the 1960s, it began producing high-specification needlefelt primarily for the filtration industry, and the website asserts that the firm has ever since been at the forefront of filtration technology.
With effect from 2 October 2006, the group's two UK-based businesses, Andrew Textile Industries Ltd and Webron Marling Ltd, merged to become one single business, Andrew Webron Ltd, its headquarters in Rawtenstall.
Andrew Webron Ltd exports approximately 65% of its annual production worldwide, and the customer base includes many leading global filtration equipment manufacturers and major fabricators of filtration products.
Ashton's of Fleetwood
London Street
Fleetwood
FY7 6JE
Website http://ashtonprinters.awardspace.co.uk
Established 1877
Established by WH Ashton and still run by the same family, the company claims to be the Fylde's leading wedding stationery retailer.
Its own specialised range of day and evening invitations, order of service, thank you and reply cards etc. is printed 'in house' and the company can tailor requests to suit the particular needs and budgets of customers. The showroom on London Street is open six days a week to allow customers to browse at their leisure, and the company is also an agent for top names such as CCA, Collisons, Lantz, Fine Impressions and Talking Pictures.
Askam Construction Ltd
3 Hampson Lane
Hampson
Lancaster
LA2 0HY
Website www.askam.co.uk
Established 1831
The present-day company was only established in 1986, but is included in this list of established firms because in 2001 it acquired the old Lancaster firm of J Parkinson & Sons (Contracting) Ltd. Therefore there is a continuous trading history that can be traced well back into the 19th century.
Askam Construction is a civil engineering, industrial and commercial building company that specialises in housing and county council projects.
Bernard Watson
170 North Road
Preston
PR1 1YP
Website www.bernardwatson.co.uk
Established 1878
The company states that it is one of the North West's leading painting firms that undertakes work in the domestic, leisure, industrial and commercial. and local authority sectors.
The website confirms that it has a history spanning more than 100 years, and that its trading heritage can be traced back to the time of establishment of J Corbishley & Sons, a former business that is now incorporated into Bernard Watson.
Besglos Polish Co. Ltd
Meadow Bank Works
George Street
Burnley
No website
Established 1906
Besglos is one of the longest established polish manufacturers in the North, dedicated to creating a safer and healthier working environment through its wide range of hygiene products and equipment.
The firm states that it has been committed from the outset to providing quality products. Nowadays the company occupies a modern 16,000 sq.ft. factory sited adjacent to the motorway network and produces its very broad range of products under one roof.
The company's clients include local authorities, hotels, contract cleaners, flooring contractors, industry large and small, commerce, rest homes, nursing homes, hospitals and the transport industry.
Attwater Group
PO Box 39
Preston
PR1 1TA
Website www.attwater.co.uk
Established 1868
The Attwater Group has been a market leader in the manufacture and supply of insulation materials for over a century, and has expanded over the years to supply materials to industries worldwide.
Founded on a tradition of quality and innovation, the company has been at the forefront of engineering plastic laminates and coated electrical insulation materials since 1868.
Today, the Attwater Group is established as a leading world player in its specialist field, with a global reputation for high-quality products, particularly engineering plastic laminates and electrical insulation.
Bill Beaumont Textiles
Park Mills
Chorley
PR7 2HP
Website www.billbeaumont.co.uk
Established 1888
The website states that Bill Beaumont Textiles can trace its history back over four generations of family ownership to when Joseph Blackledge set up a small weaving shed in Chorley to supply niche products to the local cotton markets.
Subsequent growth and diversification resulted in a move towards merchant converting and more recently, under the guidance of the current owner, into household textiles with particular focus on curtains and upholstery fabrics.
Bill Beaumont Textiles specialises in jacquard weaves and the company also offers custom-made curtains and blinds on a wide selection of its most popular fabrics.
Birtwell and Co. Ltd
Units 1 and 2
Willow Business Centre
Lower Barnes Street
Clayton-le-Moors
BB5 5SW
Website www.birtwells.co.uk
Established 1904
The website states that Birtwells has led the way in trade printing and is one of the UK's leading trade printers. The company's clients include a wide range of brokers, and the firm is said to provide specialist services to many large and small printers in the UK and offers a rapid turnaround.
The website contains only a limited amount of information regarding the heritage of the company. However, there is nothing to suggest that the firm is not an independent business.
Briggs & Duxbury Ltd
Butts
Barnoldswick
Colne
BB18 5HP
Website www.briggsandduxbury.co.uk
Established 1909
A family run that prides itself on its reputation and workmanship. The firm specialises Building/ Joinery Works, Building Material Supplies and Funeral Arrangements/ Monumental Masons.
Cherry Tree Machines Ltd
Imperial House
Gorse Street
BB1 3EU
Website www.cherrytreemachines.co.uk
Established c. 1900
The company's prime objective is to provide a premium service to the laundry industry. Whether it is the provision of an individual spare part or the design and installation of a turnkey plant, the company aims to deliver the best value combined with ongoing commitment.
Cherry Tree Laundry Solutions now has a range of service and supply to meet the most demanding of requirements and they intend to develop partnerships with customers to provide long-term mutual benefit.
Coates Engineering Group
Spring Place
Millfold
Whitworth
OL12 8DN
Website www.coateseng.com
Established 1835
This company qualifies for an entry in this list because it incorporates BCH, which was originally established in 1835. BCH was the first company to produce liquorice presses and the website asserts the company is still the world leader today.
The acquisition of this firm in 1993 led to the establishment of the Coates Engineering Group. Whether a firm should be included because of the purchase of an older company can be difficult to judge. The fact that the heritage and present-day operation of BCH receives such a high profile on the company website leads to their inclusion.
The company has a diverse range of businesses that cover three main areas: mechanical engineering, automation and food science. In 2000, the Coates Engineering Group invested in a state-of-the-art Innovation Centre. The centre has provided the opportunity to demonstrate the company's success in integrating these three pillars of process knowledge and how this process knowledge is applied in five specialised areas, i.e. liquorice, marshmallow, caramel, jam and marmalade, and chilled and ready-made meals.
Conveyor & Elevator Company Ltd
Grange Works
Wellington Street
Accrington
BB5 2NT
Website www.conveyor-and-elevator.co.uk
Established 1889
The website states that this engineering business specialises in the field of mechanical handling. The company's aim is to offer a comprehensive, first class service from the supply of individual spares through to design, manufacture, installation and commissioning where required.
The website confirms the date of establishment, but does not provide any details of the ownership and general heritage of the company. There is however nothing to suggest that it is not an independently owned company therefore it has been included in this list.
Coupe Foundry Ltd
Higher Walton
Preston
PR5 4DQ
Website www.coupefoundry.co.uk
Established c. 1900
Coupe Foundry has operated from its existing site in Higher Walton for over a hundred years. Originally known as William Coupe Ltd, the foundry was a family-owned business producing general engineering castings from cupola-melted iron.
In April 2004 the directors of Coupe Foundry bought certain assets of the business, including the name, and the foundry now continues to trade within the scope as accredited by Lloyd's Register of Quality Assurance.
The foundry has developed significantly in recent years, and now holds an enviable reputation throughout Britain and Europe as a major supplier of grey and ductile iron castings, melted using two 7-tonne-capacity modern electric melting furnaces.
The success and reputation of the company may be measured by the high standing of its customers. A policy of continuous self-appraisal and attention to detail has ensured the expansion of its customer base. Major markets include the supply of castings to the wind turbine power generator market, press tools made directly from polystyrene patterns for the automotive industry and castings for machine tool manufacturers.
Douglas Marine Ltd
Douglas Boatyard
Becconsall Lane
Hesketh Bank
PR4 6RR
Website www.douglas-marine.co.uk
Established c. 1900
Douglas Marine Ltd is situated on the River Douglas, off the Ribble Estuary, and is accessible by boat from the sea, the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, and the Lancaster Canal (via the Ribble Link). The website confirms that it is a family business and that the Douglas Boatyard has been building and repairing boats since around 1900. It was originally established to build and repair timber fishing boats once used extensively on the Irish Sea. In recent years, the boatyard has specialised in building and repairing all types of boats for recreational use, from canal cruisers to ocean-going yachts.
Droyt Products Ltd
Progress Mill
Progress Street
Chorley
PR6 ORZ
Website www.droyt.com
Established 1893
An old Lancashire firm that has managed to survive some challenging experiences that would have proved overwhelming for most businesses.
The family firm was initially founded in Minsk, Belarus, in 1893 under the name of "The Victoria Fine Soap Works". After the Russian Revolution, the company was forced to move and settled in Berlin, in a factory building just off the Kurfürstendamm, at Joachim-Friedrich-Straße 37. With a name change to Danico Glycerinseife Gesellschaft, the firm was based in Germany until 1937, when it was again forced to move. A new home was made in England, in a former yarn mill in Chorley.
Raw materials were scarce during the first few years after arriving in England, due to wartime rationing. The company survived on small allocations and made anything from tooth powder to cough medicine. Soap production did not start again in earnest until the late 1940s.
Nowadays, Droyt is an established private label and the company manufactures glycerine soaps, both solid and liquid, and is entering a new era of organic soap production.
The company remains a privately owned independent company and states that it uses the best quality vegetable or mineral ingredients to make a soap which is aesthetically pleasing and very well regarded.
EA Foulds Ltd
Albert Works
Clifton Street
Colne
BB8 9AE
Website www.fouldslifts.co.uk
Established 1907
The website states that the firm is one of the North West's leading independent lift companies and has been managed by four generations of the Foulds family.
The company was established by Ernst Albert Foulds, and initially gained a reputation as a general engineer and millwright. During the First World War it made shell casings, and then in the 1920s started to specialise in supplying goods lifts. Further diversification in the 1960s led to the manufacture of electrical control panels. Nowadays, the business specialises in all aspects of lift engineering.
Edward Dewhurst
Grierson House
Anchorage Business Park
Chain Caul Way
Riversway Docklands
Preston
PR2 2DG
Website www.edewhurst.com
Established 1887
Edward Dewhurst Ltd is a well-established family-owned private company. Founded in 1887 by Mr Edward Dewhurst, the grandfather of the present chairman and the great-grandfather of the current joint managing directors, John and Paul Dewhurst.
For over 100 years the company has been committed to building a solid reputation within the electrical engineering industry and has now successfully developed into a multi-faceted organisation.
The company offers a comprehensive range of quality engineering specialist services, tailored to meet individual customer requirements, operating within the following four key market sectors: electrical contracting, airfield services, sheet metal fabrication and civil engineering.
Granthams
Head Office
Graphics House
Charnley Road
Blackpool
FY1 4PE
Website www.granthams.co.uk
Established 1890
Granthams has been established in the graphics industry for over 100 years. Originally a sign-writing business based in Blackpool. Today Granthams has operations in two locations based in Blackpool and Preston and split into three divisions: art and reprographics supplies, copy and print, and graphic technology. Each has many years' experience and focuses on offering a professional and highly competitive range of products and services to customers across the UK.
F Brown PLC
75 Moor Lane
Preston
PR1 1JQ
Website www.fbrownplc.com
Established 1898
The establishment date was obtained from the Central Lancashire company database managed by the district councils of Preston, Chorley and South Ribble and not from the company's website.
F Brown PLC specialises in the roofing, cladding and interior refurbishment of commercial and industrial buildings. Predominantly known from its origins as an industrial roofing and cladding company, services were extended from the mid-1970s to provide a comprehensive interior fit-out package including suspended ceilings, demountable and metal stud partitions and raised-access floors.
Henry Alty Ltd
Station Road
Hesketh Bank
Preston
PR4 6SS
Website www.altys.co.uk
Established 1877
The vast majority of websites for old established firms detail the history of the firm and emphasise their record of independent trading. The website for Henry Alty gives the establishment date for the firm and briefly mentions its long and distinguished history of which it is proud, but it does not confirm that it is still independently owned nor does it mention how the firm has developed over the years. The balance of opinion however appears to be that this is the case so it has been included.
The company's head office is in Hesketh Bank, whilst there are two other branches close by in Hoole and Burscough, and a further branch in Cheshire.
The company has two main sections of business: building and horticulture. The building side of the business has five sections supplying materials under the headings of heavy and lightside building materials, tool hire, timber products, and landscape and garden products. The firm's horticultural business covers products under the headings of growing media, fertilisers, crop production, pots and trays, baskets and planters, and sundries.
The company emphasises its determination to offer a first-class service to customers at a competitive price.
Henry Halstead
Unit 492
Holly Place
Walton Summit Centre
Bamber Bridge
Preston
PR5 8AX
Website www.kanbanexperts.co.uk
Established 1880
The website states that the head office is at the Bamber Bridge address, but the website gives only brief details of the heritage of the company. The assumption has been made that it appears to be an independent business.
Henry Halstead has the aim to be the very best supplier of Total Component Management Systems to manufacturing industries. The company originated from a manufacturing base, but moved into distribution in the early 1970s.
The firm seeks to assist organisations in seeking 'World Class' manufacturing status. The firm offers a supply service (the kanban system) that is said to be radically different to the "old" procurement philosophy. This system is said to guarantee continuous stock availability on an enormous range of products, working with minimum stocks conveniently sited at point of use.
Companies in sectors such as Automotive, Electronics, Furniture Manufacturing, Domestic Appliances and Machine Tool Builders are said to have benefited from this system.
Henry Ibbotson & Son Ltd
Forrest Street
Blackburn
BB1 3BE
Website www.ibbotson-const.co.uk
Established 1756
One of the oldest companies on the list, yet the website only gives tentative details regarding the heritage of the firm. The current chairman has the same name as the founder, and there is nothing to suggest that it is part of a larger group of companies, so it has been included.
The website gives details of the type and value of the contracts being undertaken by the firm which appear to be concentrated in their local area.
H Lofthouse & Sons
Unit 10
Lincoln Park Industrial Estate
Lincoln Way
Clitheroe
BB7 1QD
No website
Established c. 1900
The company does not have a website but the firm has done work for Ribble Valley Borough Council's Surveyors Department, who have kindly confirmed that it is an independently trading company.
The company is involved in plumbing, painting and decorating, and offers a 24-hour emergency plumbing service to local authorities and domestic properties. The painting and decorating side of the business has been in existence for over 100 years.
James Proctor Ltd
PO Box 19
Cow Lane
Burnley
BB11 1NN
Website www.jamesproctor.com
Established 1875
James Proctor came upon the idea for stoking boilers automatically whilst working as an engineer for a local company. His experiments resulted in 1875 in the first patent for his invention, which he named 'Proctor's Mechanical Stoker'. Almost 50 more patents were taken out for improvements, modifications and alterations before the company was registered as James Proctor Ltd in 1902.
In subsequent years coal and ash handling equipment were added to the product portfolio along with new designs for more automated stoking systems which resulted in sales of equipment to the far corners of the world and a reputation as a world leader in coal burning technology.
Successive generations of the Proctor family have steered the company over the decades with new designs and innovative products serving the demands of a changing world. Today, this philosophy of invention and innovation continues apace with the current emphasis on energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
James Proctor Ltd has a commitment to developing biomass and renewable energy combustion systems. By burning biomass the CO2 emitted is equal to the CO2 originally taken in by the plant to grow. But the systems must be able to burn the fuel in its raw form, which often includes a high moisture content in the fuel.
The company has developed an efficient, cost-effective boiler package which enables high moisture content biomass to be utilised as a low cost, environmentally friendly fuel. This can often be a waste biomass that is currently landfilled, leading to huge cost savings for the customer if used as a fuel both in terms of fuel costs and taxation from landfill and carbon taxes, which must only rise in the future.
James Thornber Ltd
Holmes Mill
Greenacre Street
Clitheroe
BB7 1EB
Website www.jamesthornber.com
Established c. 1800
A family-owned textile manufacturer situated in Clitheroe. For over 200 years and seven generations, the Thornber family has guided the company from the days of the hand loom through the Industrial Revolution and now to the thoroughly modern weaving operation using 'state of the art' machinery and processes that make James Thornber Ltd one of the leading textile manufacturers in the UK.
James Thornber weaves in excess of 100,000 metres of fabric every week for the domestic and contract upholstery market. The remainder of their capacity is utilsed for window blinds, curtains, blankets and apparel.
J Fairburn Ltd
Waterloo Works
Trafalgar Street
Burnley
BB11 1RF
Website www.pulverisers.com
Established 1864
The website provides brief details of the company and its range of services but does not contain information on the history of the company. The date of establishment was confirmed by the Regeneration and Economic Development unit of Burnley Borough Council, and the assumption is that it is an independent firm.
The company specialises in precision engineering, print machinery spares, repairs, reconditioning of machinery and rubber covering of rollers, gear cutting etc.
J&J Ormerod PLC
Colonial House
Bacup
OL13 0EA
Website www.jjoplc.com
Established unknown
The company website only has a limited amount of information about the firm and does not explicitly confirm that it is an independent business. Without any information to the contrary however, it is assumed that it maintains an independent status and therefore has been included in this list.
The website states that the firm was founded over 100 years ago and that nowadays it produces over 600 quality kitchens and bedrooms every week. This makes it the leading supplier to many of the best outlets within the industry.
The firm is a major local employer and operates from a three-quarter of a million square foot factory, where a skilled workforce uses the latest machine technology to produce their product range.
Like many other of the long-established firms in Lancashire, the company makes a point of specifying its sustainable business practices, stating that its principles demand only the use of timbers from managed forests and that all waste materials are recycled.
John Spencer (Textiles) Ltd
Ashfield Mill
Active Way
Burnley
BB11 1BS
Website www.johnspencer.com
Established 1871
Although the company ceased trading in the early 1970s, the replacement business was formed by original family members and many workers from the former business so the fourth criterion - an uninterrupted 100-year trading history - has been in this case liberally interpreted.
In 1871 John Spencer started in business with his son John and John's brother at Waterloo shed on Trafalgar Street with 110 looms. The business grew substantially over the years and at one stage had over 2,000 looms, but along with the rest of the textile industry in the County ran into hard times. The firm was wound up in 1971, but family interest was maintained and reflected in the name of the new company John Spencer (Textiles) Ltd.
The decision was made that the new business would concentrate on a wide range of fabrics but not more than 10% of any one particular type of cloth, thereby avoiding an over reliance on a small number of large buyers who were increasingly sourcing their products from cheaper options abroad.
In 1991 a major fire engulfed the mill and everything was destroyed except one weaving shed. This became the core centre for production over the next few months, but with the money received from the insurers a modern £million mill has been developed.
Six generations of the family have experience in weaving the finest quality fabrics from a huge variety of different fibres. The company proudly boasts that, "If it can be woven, then we can probably weave it!"
The business produces woven fabrics for industry, furnishing, fashion, shirting, suiting, military, protective clothing, workwear, laminating, coating, filtration and a wide range of other end-uses.
John Turner & Sons
Preston Road
Grimsargh
Preston
PR2 5SD
Website www.johnturner.co.uk
Established 1907
The company is a building and civil engineering contractor that operates throughout North West England.
The website states that the company has divisions covering construction, joinery manufacturing, electrical services and development, and that the company has acquired a wealth of experience and a proven track record within the construction industry. The Main Contracts division represents about 80% of the firm's activity and undertakes most types of building works, valued between £500,000 to £10 million per project.
Joseph Metcalf Group
Brookside Lane
Oswaldtwistle
Accrington
BB5 3NY
No website
Established 1887
The Joseph Metcalf Group is said to be the UK's largest privately owned fertilizer and compost producer. It is a family-owned business priding itself on providing an uncompromising level of service and product quality to all its customers.
The company has a wide product portfolio range enabling it to service three distinct markets: professional horticulture; professional amenity and local authority markets; and retail gardening.
To serve these sectors, it has created three divisions, all identified under the Gem brand umbrella. Gem Gardening manufactures fertilizers, composts, bark and sundries that are available through independent garden centres. Gem Horticulture offers crop-specific composts to peat dilutants and prescription mixes. Gem Professional has its own manufacturing base and supplies a wide range of products manufactured specifically for the amenity market direct to the end user. Customers include golf clubs, cricket clubs and bowling clubs, local authorities, landscapers and contractors.
J Robinson & Sons (Plasterers) Ltd
4 Eshton Terrace
Clitheroe
BB7 1BQ
No website
Established c. 1850
The company does not have a website but the firm has done work for Ribble Valley Borough Council's Surveyors Deptartment, who have kindly confirmed that it is an independent trading company.
The firm states that it is an established family business that is over 150 years old and which is involved in plastering, roof, floor and wall tilers and slating for new work, housing, schools and general repairs.
J Wareing & Son
Whinbrick Works
Blackpool Road
Kirkham
Preston
PR4 2RJ
Website www.wareingbuildings.co.uk
Established 1909
Wareing Buildings is a specialist supplier of steel framed structures for an extensive number of applications.
The family business is said to have earned a reputation nationally and internationally based on quality and craftsmanship. Initially, the company was founded to supply products to the agricultural sector but has successfully marketed its expertise to the commercial sector with contracts as far afield as the Falkland Islands and the Sudan.
Today it manufactures purpose-built premises such as storage units, leisure and sports facilities, warehouses, agricultural buildings, stables and retail premises.
Kirk Environmental
Riverside
Bridge Street
Colne
BB8 0DR
Website www.kirk-environmental.com
Established 1907
The firm does not have a website but confirmation that it has a heritage dating back to when it started as a blacksmiths in 1907 and therefore is 100 years old in 2007 was provided by a Lancashire County Council press release commenting on how in 2006, the company accessed a Rosebud Fund loan from the County Council's economic development company, Lancashire County Developments. Rosebud loans are designed to help small and medium sized businesses, which can sometimes find it hard to raise all the investment they need from traditional sources such as banks.
The company has over the years developed into a specialist in water management and water treatment solutions and is now leading the way in its field delivering first class products to the whole of the UK and exporting its technology around the world.
Alan Kirk, the grandson of the founder of the firm, the major shareholder of the company is scaling back his involvement in the company and transferring day to day responsibilities and majority ownership to his management team.
In 2008, the firm changed its name from R Kirk & Sons to better reflect its present day business activities.
Leyprint
Leyland Lane
Leyland
PR25 1UT
Website www.leyprint.co.uk
Established c. 1900
Leyland Printing Company Ltd, universally known as Leyprint, owes its existence to Thomas Edward Mould, the grandfather of the present directors. At the turn of the century he set up a small printing business in Sandy Lane, Leyland, that is still run by the same family.
Since 1956, Leyprint has been on Leyland Lane, but has expanded dramatically over the years. In 1970 a decision was made to change the main printing process and re-equip for offset sheet-fed litho printing. At the same time the firm started to look into packaging work and now, 20 years on, approximately 50% of the capacity is in folding box work, with the balance being mainly large-sheet colour work, which is usually folded and finished on the premises.
Marland Builders & Contractors Ltd
Eden Street
Leyland
PR25 2FR
Website www.marlandbros.co.uk
Established 1909
The website confirms that it is a long established family firm that looks to maintain the best tradition of the building trades together with the high standards.
The company carries out work on a wide range of projects for a large number of clients in and around the Preston area and throughout the North West region.
Mere Brow Smithy (Ironworkers)
29 The Gravel
Mere Brow
Preston
PR4 6JX
Website www.merebrowsmithy.com
Established 1875
The origins of the firm were in two separately run smithy and wheelwright businesses located in adjoining buildings. They merged in the early 1900s, and were owned by local man Thomas Moss, then by his sons Sam and John who took over in 1950. The two brothers were skilled craftsmen and much in demand in a largely agricultural area of heavy horses which needed shoeing and even heavier machinery which needed mending.
By the late 1990s the smithy's function had changed with, ornamental metalwork being the mainstay of the business when brothers Tom and Danny Murphy took over in 2000. The business now specialises in fashionable and artistic metalwork for the home and garden.
Mitchell Interflex Ltd
County Brook Mill
Foulridge
Colne
BB9 7LT
Website www.mitchell-interflex.co.uk
Established 1907
Mitchell Interflex is a family-owned company that celebrates its centenary in 2007.
The Weaving Department has modern productive capacity to meet customer needs. Many of the fabrics produced require a brushed surface and in 1998 a custom-built Raising Department was commissioned. The Raising Department is situated on the M65 at Nelson and has excellent distribution through the motorway network. The raising factory has the best machinery available for raising both woven and non-woven fabrics with suitable ancillary equipment for crease and lapping and making up.
Ouzledale Foundry Co. Ltd
Long Ing
Barnoldswick
BB18 6BN
Website www.ouzledale.co.uk
Established 1854
The company's website states that it has been making cookers and stoves longer than any other manufacturer, and in comparison with a number of other old established firms, the company has a very colourful past. Details of the firm's history (and its association with famous people) are worth studying in full on the website. The website details the path from its beginnings with the establishment of a hardware store in Jackson, Mississippi, by Scottish entrepreneur James Smith, to it becoming a Lancashire business in 1984 when it was acquired by the Ashby family who owned the Ouzledale Foundry Company in Barnoldswick.
Page & Taylor Ltd
Watery Lane
The Docks
Preston
PR2 2XH
Website www.pageandtaylor.co.uk
Established 1872
Page and Taylor Ltd is an established company of timber importers and sawmillers. The company has always operated from premises in Preston, initially in a yard in Deepdale Mill Street and from 1903 onwards at its present six-and-a-half acre site in Watery Lane, Ashton, which adjoins the dock development.
With their strategic position opposite the dock estate, the company made full use of the port facilities. Many thousands of "Standards" of timber were imported from Russia, Canada, Poland and Scandinavia.
The mid-fifties and early seventies saw the boom years in the building trade with Page & Taylor supplying the goods for new houses, schools and hospitals.
In November 1985 the company was acquired by the present management, who then embarked on a massive investment policy. This investment has resulted in modern timber merchants with a 20,000 sq.ft. sales area capable of dealing with both the building and the DIY trade. The company supplies everything applicable to the timber trade including timber, doors, a wide range of hardwoods, ironmongery and joinery tools.
Striving to achieve the "Three R's" has always been the company's main aim: "The right product at the right price, with the right service".
Pincroft Dyeing & Printing Co. Ltd
Market Street
Adlington
near Chorley
PR7 4HE
Website www.pincroft.com
Established c. 1900
The company website states that the firm has over a century of tradition, but there is no confirmation of the actual date of establishment or if the firm is still trading as an independent company. The lack of any mention of being part of a larger organisation leads to the assumption that they qualify for an entry.
Pincroft Dyeing & Printing Co. Ltd has for the last 25 years specialised in the production of workwear fabrics and is said to be an acknowledged leader in this field.
In comparison to other websites there is not a wealth of information, but what clearly comes across is the pride the business has in emphasising its environmental credentials. The firm has invested heavily in state of the art machinery that has lead to dramatic reductions in carbon dioxide emissions. The investment also allows Pincroft to recover energy from wastewater used during processing and from the hot exhaust air of the drying and finishing equipment.
RH Slater & Son Ltd
Loud Bridge
Chipping
Preston
PR3 2NX
No website
Established 1905
The website contains a comprehensive history that charts the family involvement in the firm from its formation to the present day. The company has carried out a variety of work over the years, but the mainstream business is nowadays one of building contractor and joinery manufacture.
Reed Family Linens
2 Gisburn Road
Bolton-by-Bowland
Clitheroe
BB7 4NP
Website www.reedfamilylinens.com
Established 1852
The website provides details of the five generations of the same family that have managed the business since its inception. The firm has claimed to be synonymous with superior linens for the home and hotels ever since its beginnings as a cottage industry in Nelson. The motto "Good, better, best, never let it rest, until your good is better and your better best" is used as a guiding principle that underpins the development of the business in striving for higher quality and comfort.
Ritherdon & Co. Ltd
Lorne Street
Darwen
BB3 1QW
Website www.ritherdon.co.uk
Established 1895
The company website contains a page that charts the fascinating history of the firm from its foundation in Bolton by Percy Ritherdon. It was initially involved with electroplating and enamelling for the Edwardian bicycle boom, but the company also specialised in the precise fabrication of magic tricks. The web page charts the company's involvement in the First and Second World Wars and its subsequent work in providing products to the nuclear industry and electricity boards.
The company has been at its present site for many years and continues to invest in state of the art machinery. It nowadays specialises in manufacturing enclosures and control panel metalwork, particularly for the electricity distribution industry, but also numbers many other nationally recognised names among its customers.
The county council is grateful to Ben Ritherdon for his help in putting together these two short paragraphs, and for including a link to this list of long established Lancashire firms on the Ritherdon website.
RK Timber Engineering
Wigan Lane
Duxbury
Chorley
PR7 4BU
Website www.rktimber.co.uk
Established 1814
The website states that the company has been established since 1814 and is one of the UK's largest manufacturers and suppliers of timber engineered products for the construction industry.
Unfortunately, the website does not offer further information about the heritage of the company nor does it clarify the ownership of the firm. In the absence of any contradictory data however, it is assumed that the company is entitled to an entry as an independent Lancashire firm.
R Slinger & Son Ltd
Ribble Saw Mill
Paley Road
Preston
PR1 8LT
Website www.slingers1858.co.uk
Established 1858
R Slinger & Son Ltd was founded in 1858 by Richard Slinger and is today run by the sixth generation of the family. The website states that, "We are Architectural Ironmongers who specialise in door scheduling from our team of Guild of Architectural Ironmongers trained staff".
The company has over 10,000 lines in stock and its office and warehouse in Preston includes a large trade counter and extensive display.
Shirley's Ltd
24-26 Canterbury Street
Blackburn
BB2 2HP
Website www.shirleyswastepaper.com
Established 1900
The company specialises in recycling so does not fit exactly into any of the broad industrial and commercial sectors used to classify the firms in this article.
The company was founded in 1900, when Thomas Shirley inherited a house at 26 Canterbury Street with an adjoining small warehouse.
The website states that, with the advent of machinery together with the erosion of values of recyclable materials, survival has depended on bulk handling and specialisation.
The company now has a site of 4,000 sq.m. and can process well in excess of 2,000 tonnes of waste of paper and cardboard per week. As part of its continuing growth, and to meet customer requirements, the company also provides general waste services and plastic recycling.
T Snape Printers
Boltons Court
Preston
PR1 3TY
Website www.tsnapeprinters.co.uk
Established 1858
First established in 1858, the company now has an exceptionally long tradition of providing innovative quality work within specified timeframes. T Snape Printers is a traditional commercial printer that produces a wide range of printed products and one that specialises in the production of magazine and book work.
The firm boasts large premises on two floors providing the full spectrum of services that its customers demand.
Although long established, the company is not stuck in the past, and continues to reinvest in state-of-the-art equipment to provide a faster more convenient method of satisfying customer requirements.
Turners Sunblinds Ltd Direct
226-228 Shear Brow
Four Lane Ends
Blackburn
BB1 8DS
Website www.turnerssunblinds.co.uk
Established 1908
Interior and exterior blinds manufacturer.
The website confirms the age of the company but provides no information regarding its ownership and history. The contact details are the Blackburn address so it is assumed that it is an independent local company.
The website states that Turners Sunblinds Ltd has been supplying quality blinds to homeowners and companies and can now offer the same high quality blinds on the internet.
Ward Knowles Ltd
Brookside Lane
Oswaldtwistle
Accrington
BB5 3NY
Website www.wardknowles.co.uk
Established 1904
Ward Knowles Ltd has over the years developed from general printer to a specialist business forms printer. For many years a family company, the firm was bought by four senior managers in 2000, and since then it has undergone significant changes and investment in new technology. All the company's products are printed and finished in house at its 80,000 sq.ft. manufacturing facility in Oswaldtwistle.
The firm has no direct sales force but instead relies entirely on the major print management companies for its growth. The company states that it is one of the UK's largest manufacturers of business forms. Their philosophy is said to be one of sticking to what they are good at whilst striving to increase capacity and improve efficiency.
Waterloo Timber Co. Ltd
Waterloo Road
Clitheroe
BB7 1LR
No website
Established 1860
Waterloo Timber Co. is an independant timber supplier since 1860 that supplies a range of imported hardwoods and sheet materials including softwoods, blockboard, chipboard, mouldings and architraves, hardware and tools. The company also manufactures window frames, doors, stairs, balustrades, conservatories and summerhouses.
4.2 Food and Drink Sector
It is perhaps not surprising that this sector should a include a number of firms. Across the country there are examples of long-established local brewers, local food retailers and traditional suppliers of food products that have been around for generations. Lancashire has its fair share of companies in this sector that includes the Daniel Thwaites brewery that celebrates 200 years of trading in 2007. James Baxter & Son is also a family firm that can also trace is history back over a couple of centuries. Also of note in this sector is the Food retailer Booths. This company still successfully competes against the giants of the industry and has a strong focus on sourcing products locally, to the benefit of Lancashire firms.
One important Lancashire firm that may be entitled to an entry in this sector but is as yet not included is RS Ireland in Bacup. This family-run company is famous for its Black Puddings and the website states that it still uses the original recipe dating back to 1879. The site however does not confirm whether this was the actual date of establishment of the company.
Althams Catering Butchers
Northgate
White Lund Industrial Estate
Morecambe
Website www.j-c-althams.com
Established 1856
Established in 1856 by local farmer Thomas Altham. who opened a butcher's shop in Morecambe. His widow Mrs JC Altham took over the business and opened three more shops with her two sons, Thomas and John Robert.
In 1975, the running of the farming and butchery business was taken over by one of the present directors, the great-grandson of the founder. The company, seeing a decline in retail trade, expanded further into the catering sector, moving further afield to service hotels in the Lake District and surrounding areas.
The development of the catering business was so successful that the company moved the butchery business to larger premises on White Lund Industrial Estate.
As a result of being a specialist supplier to the catering trade of the north's leading supplier of quality meat, game, poultry etc., the company's profile among the general Lancashire public is somewhat lower than other firms that sell direct to the public.
Cowmans
13 Castle Street
Clitheroe
BB7 2BT
Website www.cowmans.co.uk
Established unknown
The exact age of the company is unknown but since the family butchers business is now run by the fifth generation of the family, it is assumed that the firm belongs in the list. Each generation has built their success on the knowledge passed down to them and the firm now has a nationwide reputation for its extensive range of quality sausages. The firm prides itself in never having to diversify or lower its standards and has dedicated employees who share in this pride.
One interesting fact about this company that was kindly confirmed by Ribble Valley Enterprise Agency is that it has only been in Clitheroe since 1959. The company started trading in Prestwich in Cheshire before moving to Lancashire. It first set up in the County in Whitworth before moving north to Nelson and then finally moving once again a few miles further west to Clitheroe.
Daniel Thwaites PLC
PO Box 50
Star Brewery
Blackburn
BB1 5BU
Website www.thwaites.co.uk
Established 1807
The brewery industry has seen enormous change over the past few decades, but up and down the country there are still small- and medium-sized locally run businesses that have long and distinguished trading histories.
Daniel Thwaites PLC is one of the oldest Lancashire firms, being founded in 1807 and incorporated in 1897. It remains an independent family-controlled business operating from its original town centre site in Blackburn.
The principal activities of the brewery division are brewing, canning, bottling, wholesaling and retailing of beers, wines and spirits. It operates over 420 tied houses and the group's hotel division, Shire Hotels Ltd, operates eight hotels throughout England and owns the Stafford Hotel in London.
D Byrne & Co.
Victoria Buildings
12 King Street
Clitheroe
BB7 2EP
Website www.dbyrne-finewines.co.uk
Established 1871
Considered by many wine aficionados as a little gem of a company, this family firm has been purveyors of fine wine and spirits since 1871. The shop and cellars are packed with an extraordinarily long list of fairly priced wines from both the New and Old Worlds.
EH Booth & Co. Ltd
4 Fishergate Lane
Preston
PR1 3LI
Website www.booths-supermarkets.co.uk
Established 1846
Founded in 1846, the company is still owned by the Booth family. It opened its first shop in Blackpool, and nowadays has more than 25 modern food stores across Lancashire, Cumbria and beyond. It continues to abide by its long-standing philosophy to "sell the best goods available, in attractive stores, staffed with first class assistants", and also specialises in offering locally-sourced products. According to the firm, at least 25% of the products in Booths at any one time are locally produced. 100% of the company's fresh meat comes from Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cumbria and Cheshire and the company is also strong in local fresh fruit and vegetables.
An efficient company making a success in a sector that contains such big rivals and has been around for so long cannot have avoided coming to the notice of its major competitors. The company has never accepted any takeover approaches and its continued survival is due to the strong family tradition and the overriding passion to continue with that tradition.
Fitzpatrick's
5 Bank Street
Rawtenstall
Rossendale
BB4 6QS
Website www.fitzpatrickstemperancebar.co.uk
Established 1890
Fitzpatrick's Temperance Bar in Rawtenstall has been making soft drinks for more than 100 years. The shop is believed to be the last of the original temperance bars that were set up as alternatives to pubs in the 1890s.
The Fitzpatricks were a family of herbalists who emigrated from Ireland to Lancashire in the 1800s. They opened a chain of shops throughout Lancashire selling herbal remedies and gained popularity through the temperance movement. At their peak the Fitzpatricks owned a total of 24 shops.
The Rawtenstall shop has managed to survive through the dedicated support of the local community and the affection they have for both the shop and its drinks. The proud tradition is continued today by the new owners, with a new dream to make Fitzpatrick's cordial available to all.
Frank Littler & Sons Ltd
Stall 129
3-day Market
Blackburn
No website
Established 1860
The Yellow Pages advert for the business confirms the date of establishment and the stall sign on Blackburn Market asserts that it is the oldest family butchers in the town.
Frederick's Ice Cream Ltd
Bolton Road Dairies
Heath Charnock
PR7 4AL
Website www.fredericksicecream.co.uk
Established 1896
Frederick's is proud to have been in business as a family-run firm for over 100 years. Frederick's Ice Cream is the North West's leading family-owned and -managed ice cream company, manufacturing, wholesaling and retailing Italian-style ice cream.
The family originated from a small village in north-west Italy and the company was established in 1896 by Mattia Federici and his brothers when they arrived in England. Mattia's son, Matthew, married May Amelia Massa, whose family had been making ice cream in the Chorley area since 1892. When they married in 1936, they were bought the shop as a wedding gift and the company is run by their descendents.
The site on Bolton Road is the base for all manufacturing and wholesaling for the company and is also the site of the flagship ice cream parlour. The company also has ice cream parlours in central Chorley and in Wigan.
Frederick's Ice Cream currently produces over 112 different flavours of ice cream with new ones being added constantly. Every year Frederick's Ice Cream enters the National Ice Cream Competition. The company has been delighted to receive many awards including Diplomas, Diplomas of Merit and Special Diplomas of Merit.
George Haffner (Foods) Ltd
14 Keirby Walk
Burnley
BB11 2DE
Website www.haffners.co.uk
Established 1889
George Kristian Haffner, a German immigrant, arrived in England in 1879 and in 1889 he opened a pork butcher's shop in Burnley. The company's website charts the family's involvement in the business up to the present day and the fortunes of the business, which nowadays has three outlets in Burnley.
The company sells all kinds of meat and states that it takes particular care to buy from local wholesalers and farmers. In addition to the retail trade, the company also supplies local caterers such as restaurants, public houses, residential homes, canteens, etc.
The website states that the seasoning recipe for the sausages remains the same as the one brought to England from Germany by John's great-frandfather in 1879.
George Speight & Sons Ltd
Queen Street
Lancaster
LA1 1RX
Website www.georgespeights.co.uk
Established 1889
The company specialises in supplying fresh fruit, vegetables, potatoes and par-fry chips directly to companies. Since the firm does not have a retail presence, it is somewhat less well known than many other old Lancashire firms.
The website states this is a family-run firm that has customers throughout the North West of England.
James Baxter & Son
Thornton Road
Morecambe
LA4 5PB
Website www.baxterspottedshrimps.co.uk
Established 1799
Bob Baxter's family has been potting shrimps for 200 years. Whereas the family once ran their own boats, had a wet fish shop and employed a large staff, the owner now buys his Morecambe Bay shrimps, though they are still processed in the same time-honoured way.
The county council is grateful to the company for including a link to this list of old firms on their website.
J Atkinson & Co. Ltd
China Street
Lancaster
LA1 1EX
Website www.atkinsonsteaandcoffee.co.uk
Established 1837
The company was orignally established as the Grasshopper Tea Warehouse and has occupied these premises on China Street since 1901. It has been supplying tea and coffee to the citizens of Lancaster since its inception.
According to their website, five generations of continuous trading in the city have resulted in a marvellous collection of tea and coffee artefacts, such as tea cannisters from the 1820s, an original spice drawer-run complete with uranium glass knobs, and in the window the famous small roaster dating from just after the Second World War that still wafts its delicious aroma out into the streets of Lancaster today.
Everything from scoops to scales have been lovingly mended and cared for over the years and are still very much in use on a daily basis.
Lofthouse of Fleetwood Ltd
Maritime Street
Fleetwood
FY7 7LP
Website www.fishermansfriend.com
Established 1865
Perhaps more than any other long-established Lancashire firm, Lofthouse of Fleetwood has managed to carve out a distinct market niche with a well-known product.
The company makes the famous Fisherman's Friend Lozenges. It was founded by James Lofthouse, a resident of Fleetwood who created an extremely strong liquid containing menthol and eucalyptus, which helped fishermen working in freezing conditions. To make it easier to transport, the liquid was made into small lozenges.
The company remains family owned and is still resident in Fleetwood where it is a significant local employer.
Mitchells of Lancaster (Brewers) Ltd
11 Moor Lane
Lancaster
LA1 1QB
Website www.mitchellsbrewery.co.uk
Established c. 1865
Mitchell's of Lancaster is a well established family owned pub and hotel company, operating seven individual, quality hotels and 55 traditional inns in North Lancashire and Cumbria.
Established for over 140 years, the company was founded by William Mitchell and is now run by the founder's great-great-grandchildren. The story goes that a chance meeting with a friend provided the money William needed to build his own brewery. Once the brewery was built, William went on to build a number of large hotels and inns, strategically sited within the Lancaster and Morecambe area. The company no longer brews its own beer, but maintains the family traditions of running good quality establishments offering an excellent range of cask ales, fine wines and home-cooked food in comfortable surroundings.
Moorhouse's
4 Moorhouse Street
Burnley
BB11 5EN
Website www.moorhouses.co.uk
Established 1865
William Moorhouse founded Moorhouse's in 1865, in premises not far from the present production site, on the opposite side of Accrington Road in Burnley. He produced mineral waters, which were sold in bottles and half-gallon jars. By 1870 the business was doing so well that William decided to build his own premises and relocated to the building that is today occupied by the company. By the early 20th century the company was producing hop bitters that were low in alcohol, less than 2% abv, and deemed to be "non-intoxicating liquours".
The company remained in the hands of the Moorhouse family until 1978 and then entered a short period of constant change of ownership. In 1982 a local businessman, Alan Hutchinson, bought the business and, with the introduction of Pendle Witches Brew, production grew steadily. Unfortunately Mr Hutchinson died quite suddenly in 1985 and Moorhouse's was faced with extinction. The company was saved by William Parkinson, who originated from Burnley, and who since then he has invested in a new brew plant in 1988 and a new warehouse/distribution depot in 1995.
According to the website, the company has six pubs and supplies beers to Free Trade outlets within a 50-mile radius of the brewery. It also enjoys national distribution through a comprehensive wholesale network including the local supermarket chain Booths.
Morris Quality Bakers
Baker Street
Coppull
Chorley
PR7 5UH
Website www.morrisqualitybakers.co.uk
Established 1912
The company serves clients on a daily basis from Cumbria in the north to Staffordshire in the south. It handles over 10,000 orders a week from clients ranging from small sandwich businesses to local authorities. Moriris Quality Bakers offers a full range of bakery products from Morning Goods and Breads to speciality products like Chorley Cakes and Confectioneries.
The family business started in butchery, and in 1912 Walter Morris opened a butchers shop in Coppull. The shop thrived and was passed down to his son who continued the family business of supplying the Coppull area with the finest 'home-killed' meats, and in turn it was passed to his son Henry.
In the early 1970s Henry decided to process this meat himself making pasties, sausage rolls and hotpots. By 1975 Henry had increased his range of pies and started extending the shop; so Morris's Pies was born.
In the 1980s the business started to supply local pubs and by 1989 the company moved to larger premises in Coppull. With changes in the food market, and more demanding legislative controls for all high risk ingredients such as meat and diary products, Henry decided that in 1995 Morris's of Coppull would focus on rolls and morning goods. Now called Morris's Quality Bakers, the company has over recent years won some major orders and since the start of the new millennium has needed to expand its premises in Coppull.
WH Oddie Ltd
129 Scotland Road
Nelson
BB9 7XR
No Website
Established 1905
Manufacturer and retailer of bread and flour confectionery, with shops across East Lancashire.
Roberts & Co.
The Coffee Roastery
Cedar Farm
Back Lane
Mawdesley
L40 3SY
Website www.e-coffee.co.uk
Date of establishment 1891
The firm has its headquarters in Lancashire, though much of its heritage originates from outside the county.
This family business has been involved in the tea and coffee trade since the present owner's grandfather, who originated from North Wales, moved to Liverpool to work in the tea trade. The business originally targeted markets back in North Wales but slowly the port of Liverpool became the main area of business.
Famous shipping lines like Cunard, Blue Star Line, Elder Dempster and others were customers, along with the Navy and numerous ship stores and chandlers. From around 1960, the decline of the port and the advent of supermarkets meant that new markets had to be found
The growing catering trade became the biggest element of sales and the company moved into speciality tea and coffee shops in the 1980s. Shops were opened in Wigan, Chester, Manchester, Southport and London. Cedar Farm in Mawdesley is the main base for the company from where its direct by mail order/internet and wholesale.
The Old Sweet Shop
4-6 Pedder Street
Morecambe
Website www.oldsweetshop.com
Established 1903
One of the few remaining traditional sweetshops left in the UK, the business was originally established in 1903 as a newsagent and sweet shop and continues to the present day with a range of 250 loose sweets. It is now possible to place orders online which are usually processed within 48 hours.
4.3 Wholesale and Retail Sector
Another sector that contains a number of old Lancashire companies. The customer goodwill that develops over the years from a long trading history allows a number of local retailers to successfully compete in selling products and services in areas that are dominated by large multi-nationals. Of particular note in this section is Althams Travel which over the years has grown in to a reasonably large travel agent covering East Lancashire, Greater Manchester and parts of Yorkshire.
A company not included in the following list but which is probably entitled to an entry is Stringers Department Store. This locally well-known Lytham store has been in the hands of the present owners since the 1950s, but has a trading history that goes back much further. The website does not provide details of the exact age of the company therefore it has been excluded from the main list.
Also worth a mention is Whewells of Accrington, which is a long-established family firm of timber and DIY merchants. The website does not however confirm whether the trading history is long enough for inclusion in this list.
Ainsworth Jewellers
Darwen Street
Blackburn
BB2 2BW
No website
Established 1870
A family jewellers based in central Blackburn since 1870 that specialises in gem-set rings, quality gold and silver jewellery, watches and clocks etc.
Altham and Sons (Lancaster) Ltd
Anchor Buildings
Penrod Way
Heysham
LA3 2UZ
No website
Established 1856
This company does not appear to have their own web presence so there may be some inaccuracies in the following details.
A chandling service was started from a warehouse on St Georges Quay, Lancaster, to service the increasing number of vessels into Heysham Harbour. 1965 saw the move to larger premises in Morecambe for the ship stores.
A company directory states its business activity as 'Ships store merchants and bonded warehousemen'.
It would appear that the company has a common history with the Althams catering business mentioned earlier. From the limited amount of information to hand it appears that the butchery and chandling businesses seem to have been separated in 1975.
Althams Travel
Riverside Office
Netherwood Road
Burnley
BB10 2AN
Website www.althams.co.uk
Established 1874
Althams Travel is an independent travel agent established in 1874. This family run business has grown from its initial founder Abraham Altham's vision into a large network of travel shops across Lancashire and Yorkshire. The Althams Travel booking line, the 31 holiday shops throughout Lancashire and Yorkshire plus the website all mean that customers can either click, call or come in.
Banks Lyon Jewellers
36-40 Church Street
Lancaster
LA1 1LH
Website www.bankslyon.co.uk
Established 1876
The website contains only brief details about the history of the firm but does confirm the date of establishment. This long-established jeweller takes pride in its display of watches and diamonds, and considers that its success has been founded on the peerless advice and friendly service it gives to all its customers.
Bodens Cycles
14 Station Terrace
Off Lytham Road
Blackpool
Website www.bodenscycles.com
Established 1896
The website proudly asserts that it is the best little bike shop in the North West. The site also confirms the long trading history of the firm but no limited information on the ownership of the business. Given the size of the company, the assumption is that it is still locally owned.
The business has two showrooms and offers a selection of cycles and accessories from state of the art racers to the humble but still popular shopper bikes. There is also a workshop that does anything from replacing inner tubes to rebuilding wheels and most other repairs.
Briggs Shoes
205 Marine Road West
Morecambe
LA4 4BU
Website www.briggsshoes.co.uk
Established 1865
The website confirms that the origins of the firm actually predate 1865, but this was the year when Thomas Briggs joined the staff of John Gorrill as an apprentice shoemaker. Gorrill's shoes of Penny Street Lancaster had been established for some years and on his retirement in 1865 Mr Gorrill sold his business to Thomas Briggs. The business flourished and in more recent times expanded throughout the North West opening as "K Shoemines" in Morecambe on Regent Road in the early 1980's. A move to much larger premises saw the business relocate to its current home on Marine Road West.
The Briggs Business was sold to a management buyout in 2004 but was bought back by the Powney family in 2009. Mr Powney (Great, Great Grandson of Thomas Briggs) has re-established the Clarks Brand, opening a large Children's department in July 2009 providing a full measuring and fitting service to the children of Morecambe once more.
Further shopfitting in 2010 saw the opening of a dedicated Men's and Ladies Clarks Department. The Morecambe store is the largest of the five operated by the family.
Chadwicks
100 Mowbray Drive
Blackpool
FY3 7UN
Website www.chadwicks-blackpool.co.uk
Established 1896
The firm's logo confirms the date of establishment, but the website primarily charts the history of the business after it moved to its present site in 1956. Over the years, the company has expanded its range of building products and opened a DIY and ironmongery store in 1973. Growth continued, and the firm now has a number of different departments and stocks over 5,000 different lines.
Cunningham Jewellers
2 Damside Street
Lancaster
LA1 1PB
Website www.cunningham-jewellers.co.uk
Established 1885
Cunninghams Jewellers is said to be Lancaster's oldest jeweller. It was originally established by James Cunningham, but in 1945 the business passed to David and Eveline England (relatives of the current owners), then in 1962 to Peter and Marian Gregg. In 1983 Anthony Gregg became a partner in the business becoming proprietor in 1986.
Dan Kerr Brides
49-51 Preston New Road
Blackburn
Website www.dankerr.co.uk
Established 1897
Dan Kerr Brides is a family firm that is now under the direction of the third and fourth generations.
The firm states that they are probably the largest stockist of wedding and bridesmaid dresses in Lancashire, and also specialises in men's formal suit hire. Besides Blackburn, the firm has shops in Preston and Blackpool.
Edmondson's (Blackburn) Ltd
99-119 Darwen Street
Blackburn
BB2 2AH
Website www.edmondsonsfurniture.co.uk
Established 1898
Edmondson's is an independent furniture store specialising in the middle to top end furniture market.The showroom is located close to the town centre and has more than 10,000 sq.ft. of display area.
Entwistle Guns
254 Plungington Road
Preston
PR2 3PQ
Website www.entwistleguns.com
Established 1895
The company can trace its origins back to 1895 and has had a number of owners. It was originally started by Stephen Troughton who opened a shop in Alfred Street, Blackpool. The Entwistle name first appeared around 1930 when Troughton's nephew Sam Entwistle took over the business and moved a few yards around the corner to 151 Church Street.
After Mr Entwistle, the business was purchased by Eddie Miller, a former journalist from Lytham. The firm prospered and a branch shop was opened in 1968 on Preston's Cattle Market. The current owner, Mike Mogilnicki, ran the Preston end of the business until 1981 when Mr Miller retired. Mike and Margaret Mogilnicki purchased the company at that point and have successfully developed the country clothing side. In July 2002 a major step was taken when the company moved into larger premises on Plungington Road in Preston.
E Taylor Sons & Co. Ltd
691/693 Bacup Road
Waterfoot
Rossendale
BB4 7HB
Website www.taylorsthedecoratingstore.co.uk
Established 1899
The website states that this is an independent family business that values top quality and personal service, and that has been trading for over 100 years. The www.ukdata.com website gives the year of incorporation of the company as 1899.
The firm suppliers Paints and Wallcoverings, and are paint tinting specialists, using the latest computer technology to satisfy specific customer requirements. The firm stocks a range of Brushes, Rollers, Tools, Adhesives and Fillers etc., and supplies both trade and retail customers.
F&W Burrow & Son
23 Emesgate Lane
Silverdale
Carnforth
No website
Established over 100 years
The website contains only limited information about the firm, but it seems safe to assume that this small butchers shop in the attractive village of Siverdale is an independent business. The limited details on the website state that they only use the finest meats and poultry and that they are proud of their unique homemade Cumberland sausage recipe. Besides serving visitors to the shop, the firm supplies local hotels and restaurants.
George Anderson Stationers Ltd
36 Standish Street
Burnley
BB11 1AP
No website
Established 1721
One of the oldest Lancashire firms still trading, the informative website provides comprehensive details of the history of the firm. The firm is named after George Anderson who joined the business as an errand boy in 1866.
The firm has now been at the Standish street address for around 20 years and is under the ownership of the fourth generation of the Anderson family.
Its product range includes office machines and supplies, printer ink and refills and craft products etc.
Halewood & Sons
37 and 68 Friargate
Preston
PR1 2AT
No website
Established 1867
The business was initially founded by William Halewood as a second hand bookshop, and is still run by the descendents of the original owner. Nowadays, the company sells to academics worldwide and has vast range of stock covering an enormous range of topics. The company states that they are 'Antiquarian, New and Export Booksellers since 1867'.
HM Sowerbutts & Co.
10 King Street
Clitheroe
BB7 2EP
No website
Established 1870
Clitheroe is a thriving market town in the Ribble Valley that contains an impressive collection of long-established family firms. One of the most prominent is the home furnishings store HM Sowerbutts & Co., now run by the fifth generation of the family. The store is situated in an old five-storey corn mill right in the centre of Clitheroe. The website states that they have comprehensive displays of both contemporary and traditional upholstery, beds, cabinets and occasional furniture, together with a wide range of carpets to suit all tastes.
Hesfords DIY, Gardening & Housewares
Moorgate
Ormskirk
L39 4RU
Website www.hesfordsdiy.co.uk
Established 1903
Hesfords has been a family concern since it was founded. The company began by specialising in agricultural engineering, but in 1983 the grandson of the founder decided to set up a retail outlet to supply domestic customers.
The business has been trading from its present location since 1978 and the firm's products range from screws, washers and paint to household and gardening tools. In addition, the company supplies gas air products such as: welding gas, cooking gas and balloon gas.
Wm Hobkirk & Son
118-128 Darwen Street
Blackburn
BB2 2AJ
Website www.hobkirk.co.uk
Established 1903
Founded by Mr William Hobkirk, the company began trading from the Salford area in central Blackburn. William was joined by his son Edgar Hobkirk then in the 60's by Edgar's son and William's grandson Peter Hobkirk.
The company then expanded having another retail shop on Darwen Street on the opposite side of Blackburn's town centre which to this day is the company's head office.
During the '70s and '80s it was Peter Hobkirk who expanded the chain of domestic shops and the 1980s also saw the introduction of industrial sewing machines to the companies already vast range of sewing products, along with the appointment of Mr Brian Buttress as Industrial Technical Director.
2001 saw the opening of 'Hobby's Art and Craft Store' (run by Gillian Holden) which has gone from strength to strength and more recently has doubled in size to expand the range of products on offer.
Mark Hobkirk and Alison Pettinger joined the company in 1993 and in June of 2005 they became Sales Director and Financial Director with Peter Hobkirk as Company Chairman.
The company continues to trade from their head office on Darwen Street, Blackburn, and has reduced the number of satellite branches from six to two.
James Hall & Co. (Southport) Ltd
89-91 Blackpool Road
Ribbleton
Preston
PR2 6DY
Website www.jameshall.uk.com
Established 1863
The company's aim is, "To build lasting partnerships with our SPAR members. We will work hard to provide quality products and to give excellent service at reasonable prices. We will continually strive to develop a business environment where we and our SPAR partners can successfully grow together."
James Hall & Co. (Southport) Limited was founded by its namesake in 1863 when Mr Hall opened a bacon cutting business and retail shop in Southport. The business prospered and the company began to supply other shops with its products.
By the 1950s, the third generation of the family had assumed control, and in 1966 the company consolidated its operations into a single new warehouse on Blackpool Road, Preston.
It was among the first five distributors to be instrumental in introducing SPAR to the UK, and has over the years expanded its operation to cover the whole of the North of England. The company announced in 2006 that it has plans for a £30 million relocation to a state-of-the-art facility on Bluebell Way near Junction 31a of the M6.
JH Blakey & Sons
Burnley Rd
Brierfield
Nelson
BB9 5AD
Website www.jhblakey.net
Established 1905
The company continues the codes of practice laid down by the founders of the company, James Henry and Mary Blakey and which are now practicsed by the grandson of the founder: honesty, quality and value coupled with excellence of service.
The company boasts vast showrooms that display all types of locks, handles and safes to suit all applications. Services include trained locksmiths, the design and construction of locks under license, key cutting, exit devices and door controls.
J Webster & Sons Ltd
94 Church Road
Tarleton
Near Preston
PR4 6UP
Website www.jwebsterandsons.com
Established 1889
J Webster & Sons was established by Joseph Webster, the Great Grandfather of the current directors Joseph and Jonathan. The company has built a reputation around supplying their customers with the highest quality furniture and furnishings available.
The company's philosophy is to supply the very best to its customers. The website states that the showroom is an emporium of everything to furnish and decorate your home.
JW Fish
62 Lord Street
Fleetwood
FY7 6DT
Website www.fish4cookware.co.uk
Established 1887
The kind assistance of a member of the public who stated that it is one of her favourite shops led to this firm being identified for inclusion.
JW Fish is said to be a family run business which the current owners bought in 1982 from Rob Winstanley.
The website unfortunately contains little information on the history of the firm, but it does highlight the list of cookware products sold online at the Fleetwood premises and reveals that the firm has an important online presence.
K Supplies Ltd
Hill End Lane
Cloughfold
Rossendale
BB4 7PP
Website www.ksupplies.co.uk
Established 1880
The company has seven outlets, five of which are in the Lancashire administrative area. The website gives the phone number of the Rossendale branch as the contact for new accounts, therefore it has been assumed that this is the head office.
K Supplies Ltd is a company able to trace its origins back to when William Edward Kay first set up in business. It remains a family owned business, which continues to provide customers with a competitive personal service. Its policy of working closely with customers and suppliers is said to have produced continuous growth, and has led to K Supplies Ltd becoming the leading independent, industrial distributor in the North West.
The company's buyers are said to deal only with leading manufacturers and suppliers when purchasing top quality branded tools, machinery and equipment, which helps the company maintain a consistently high level of service at competitive prices.
The company prides itself on being the best source for unusual items as well as the more common ones. Computerised stock control locates tools and equipment held by the company at the touch of a button. The fleet of vans gives a twice-daily delivery service from most branches guaranteeing a rapid response to our customers' demands.
Lawsons Gift Shop
28 New Street
Lancaster
LA1 1EG
Website www.lawsonsgiftshop.com
Established 1837
The website states that shop is a family run business dating back to the same year that Queen Victoria became monarch. Now run by Matt and Liz Mackay the business has said to have been developed with quality and service in and offers an eclectic mix of products for the home, travel, business, fun and leisure. Lawsons is now in a modern unit within the city centre pedestrian zone to project its 21st century image.
Leonard Dews
43-47 Market Street
Blackpool
FY1 1SU
Website www.leonarddews.co.uk
Established 1877
The firm has premises in Blackpool and Lytham and also Places in Blackpool and Lytham and there is also an affiliate business in the Isle of Man.
The website states that company has been operating as a family business since the 1920s, but offers no details of the firm's history prior to this date. In addition to offering jewellery, timepieces and diamonds, it also provides repairs and valuation services.
Mears H (Furnishers) Ltd
The Oaks Business Park
Longridge Road
Ribbleton
Preston
PR2 5BQ
Website www.mearscarpets.co.uk
Established 1802
The company website states that the business is now under the control of the sixth generation of the Mears family. Originally brush manufacturers and wholesale and retail hardware merchants, the company soon added other ranges including toys, carpets and house furnishings. After a fire in 1984 that severely damaged their town centre premises, the company carried on trading from their warehouse and started to specialise solely in carpets and floor coverings. In 1999 they moved to their present site on the Longridge road close to junction 31A of the M6.
Mercer & Sons Ltd
21-27 Northgate
Blackburn
BB2 1JT
Website www.mercer-sons.co.uk
Established 1840
Mercers has been established since 1840 and is still successfully trading from the original site. Traditionally an ironmongers, Mercers has diversified to become a Department store and trade centre. The company's town centre store supplies a range of quality goods including - Giftware-Cookware-Tools-Garden Supplies-DIY Products, and has a Toy and Hobby section.
Mercers was Blackburn's oldest shop but unfortunately early in 2009 the shop in the town centre closed. It was at the time however stated that the trade accessories branch of the business will remain open.
Platt's of Preston
82 Fishergate
Preston
PR1 2NJ
Website www.peterdraper.co.uk
Established 1832
Platt's the Pen Shop has been situated on Fishergate in central Preston since 1832. Originally a printers, it moved to new premises in the same street around ten years ago.
The firm are agents for Parker, Waterman, Cross, Lamy, Mont Blanc, Caran d'Ache, Pelikan, Fisher Space Pen and Lalex pens, and sell a vast selection of fountain pens as well as ballpoint pens, pencils and rollerballs.
Porters Wallpapers and Paints Ltd
16-20 Warner Street
Accrington
BB5 1HN
Website www.portersofaccrington.co.uk
Established 1872
The website only contains brief details of the firm's heritage, but does confirm the date of establishment and the name of the present owner. It nowadays serves both the trade and DIY markets and offers most brands of wallcoverings, fabrics, soft furnishings, paints, varnishes and decorating tools, brushes, rollers and specialist items.
S&A Blackwell Ltd
10 Market Square
Lytham
FY8 5LW
Website www.sandablackwell.com
Established 1869
The company was for more than 100 years run by the Blackwell family, but in 1972, the present business was formed following the takeover of the family firm.
The firm has customers worldwide and supplies a comprehensive range of metals, chemicals and minerals. It also offers packaging and re-packing services, grinding, blending and storage services etc.
Samuel Cooke & Co. Ltd
Wyre Street Oil Depot
Padiham
Burnley
BB12 8DF
Website www.cooke.co.uk
Established 1845
The Samuel Cooke group of companies is one of the largest independent fuels, fuelcards, lubricants and energy suppliers in the UK. The current product portfolio encompasses fuel cards, fuels (road, industrial, marine), home heating oil, lubricants and greases (automotive, industrial, metalworking and food safe), process oils and construction lubricants.
The Samuel Cooke group of companies is determined to remain a privately owned entrepreneurial independent group, and its mission is to be the best in its chosen fields of operation. This will be achieved through the application of consistent values, customer focus and determination across all disciplines.
The Samuel Cooke Group has been in existence since 1845, when the Burnley based Wholesale Chemists Richard and James Thomas expanded their business to blend lubricating oils for the Lancashire weaving industry. Samuel Cooke joined the oil business established by the Thomas brothers and in 1881 took over the business and changed the name of the company. Family members ran the business for many years, but over time control passed to other senior individuals involved with the company.
S Carr & Son
High Street
Garstang
PR3 1FA
Website www.carrsjewellers.co.uk
Established 1820
The logo in the top left hand corner of the website is the source of the establishment date. S Carr & Son is a family jewellers with a wide selection of jewellery in gold, silver and platinum, along with diamond rings and gem set rings and jewellery.
The company has an extensive collection of wedding rings, watches, quality giftware and are trophy-makers and engravers. With hand making jewellery on the premises we are able to create your own unique piece of jewellery.
The Sutcliffe Tool Company Limited
Burnham Trading Park
Blannel Street
Burnley
BB11 4AA
Website www.sutcliffe-tools.co.uk
Established over 100 years
The website does not confirm that the business is an independently owned company, but without any evidence to the contrary it has been assumed that it is entitled to an entry. Sutcliffe Tools has been supplying tools to trade and public for over 100 years and claims a high level of product knowledge, service quality, excellent prices and has an online ordering facility.
Thomas Banks & Co. Ltd
Deepdale Street
Preston
PR1 5BD
Website www.thomasbanks.net
Established 1862
Thomas Banks & Co. Ltd is a family firm still managed by members of the Banks family. The company specialises in the sale of coal, and oil for domestic heating needs and also offers a comprehensive spare parts service for domestic heating appliances.
Tom Barron Group Ltd
Square Lane
Catforth
Preston
PR4 OHQ
Website www.tombarron.co.uk
Established c. 1900
The website contains comprehensive details of the firm's formative years, but like most businesses connected to farming, the exact date of establishment can be difficult to identify. The details do however confirm that the firm is well over 100 years old.
The company was founded by Tom Barron, who began as a pioneer of commercial poultry keeping in Lancashire. From keeping a few hens to supplement his earnings as a cobbler, he built Catforth Poultry Farm into a major business. The website contains a wealth of information regarding the growth of the firm over the years and the awards gained and technical advances introduced.
The website also emphasises how the firm has diversified over the years into new areas of operation. The group now incorporates the UK's largest producer of quail and quail eggs, along with Clifton Dairies and a wide range of horticultural and agricultural products derived from the farming activities of the Group.
T&W Garner
3-5 Witham Road
Skelmersdale
WN8 8HR
Website www.twgarner-ironmongers.co.uk
Established 1878
The business has been sold to new owners on a relatively small number of occasions given the length of time that the shop has been in existence. It was originally opened in 1878 to service the then small mining village of Skelmersdale, by brothers Thomas and William Garner. After their deaths, the shop was sold to Peter Seddon in 1935, and after his death in 1957 to Edward Hodges, who had worked at the shop from leaving school. On Mr. Hodges' retirement in 1980, it was sold to Walter and David Oakley, who in 1989 and 1998 carried out extensive building work that included extending the shop and storage area.
T&W Garner is said to be renowned for its wide and varied range of goods, and the friendly and helpful who are always ready to offer help and advice.
Whittles
47 Fishergate
Preston
PR1 8BH
Website www.whittlesjewellers.co.uk
Established 1880
The website states that the company has provided Preston and the North West with some of the worlds finest watches, jewellery and gifts. Now in the fourth generation of the Rhodes family, Whittles is committed to providing exceptional service and pride's itself on the loyalty this level of care has built up with our clients.
Wilcocks & Sons
49-51 Chapel Street
Chorley
PR7 1BU
Website www.wilcockandsons.co.uk
Established 1878
According to the website, Wilcock and Sons was run by the same family for over a hundred and twenty years. In 2000 the store was taken over by Arthur Adlam who had worked for the Wilcock family for twenty years.
Ever since its inception, the store has had the same intentions, to be a 'one stop shop' for hardware needs, and to provide a friendly, professional service from staff that really know about the business.
4.4 Financial and Business Services Sector
The banking sector in particular has a long economic history and contains a number of large and small firms that can trace their origins back to the 19th Century or even earlier. There are still a number of Mutual Building Societies across the Country and Lancashire retains two that have been in existence for over a century. The Building Societies Association website lists the remaining societies and highlights the fact that the two in Lancashire are modest in size, but they continue to offer a service to Lancashire residents.
The following list also includes a number of solicitors firms and there are more than likely others that could be added to the list. The longevity of this business sector, and the nature of the profession, leads to the establishment of a number of firms in this sector that can trace their lineage back well over 100 years. Of note is the fact that Lancashire has the oldest family firm of solicitors in which the original founding family has maintained its involvement throughout the whole of its history.
Blackhurst, Swainson, Goodier
Solicitors
Preston Office
9 Cannon Street
Preston
PR1 3QD
Website www.bsglaw.co.uk
Established 1720
The oldest independent Lancashire company so far identified, the company has a large number of experienced lawyers specialising in conveyancing, personal injury, family law and commercial work.
The present firm was formed as a result of the merger of two firms of solicitors Blackhurst Swainson and Oswald Goodier & Co. in January 2005. Prior to this event, Blackhurst Swainson had been established for over 285 years and Oswald Goodier & Co. for over 105 years.
Although steeped in history and ever mindful of the need to maintain solid traditional standards, the firm claims to have a modern approach to the practice of law.
Charles Parker Bennett & Co.
17/18 Cannon Street
Preston
PR1 3NR
Website www.parkerbennett.co.uk
Established 1874
Charles Parker Bennett & Co. is an independent firm of Chartered Surveyors and Estate agents. The firm manages an extensive portfolio of commercial and residential property and claims to have management charges lower than those of many larger organisations.
Valuations are carried out throughout the North West of England for bank lending or private purposes for all types of property. Valuations include those for rating, taxation and rent review purposes also.
The company is active in residential sales and commercial sales and lettings.
Chorley Building Society
Key House
Foxhole Road
Chorley
PR7 1NZ
Website www.chorleybs.co.uk
Established 1859
A small mutually owned building society with three branches, one in central Chorley, one in Leyland and the modern head office branch on Foxhole Road in Chorley.
The society has managed to retain its mutual status and independence when many others have either merged or decided to lose their mutual status.
Dickinson Parker Hill
22 Derby Street
Ormskirk
L39 2BZ
Website www.dphlaw.co.uk
Established c. 1810
The firm considers that it is probably one of the oldest firms of solicitors in the area and can trace its origins back to the early 1800s. The association with the founding family of the firm lasted until 1999 when the great, great grandson of the original Mr Hill retired.
The firms asserts that it offers a wide and extremely comprehensive range of legal services, including domestic and commercial conveyancing, wills, probate, accident work and family work.
Garratts Insurance Brokers
Camden House
2 Camden Place
Preston
PR1 3JL
Website www.garrattsinsurance.co.uk
Established 1877
George Garratt started selling insurance to the individuals and businesses of Preston and the surrounding and following in his footsteps, Francis, Charles, John and now Richard Garratt have provided bespoke insurance solutions to many of the North West's leading companies.
Richard and co-Director John Grindley have overseen the company's recent growth which resulted in the expansion into larger premises in central Preston in 2004, however the company remains just a few hundred yards from where George Garratt first opened his premises.
The larger premises have enabled Garratts to invest further in additional technology and staff developing delivery of service and complexity of product to its clients.
Our relationships with insurance companies continue to flourish locally, nationally and now internationally opening up unique markets for the benefit of the expanding client base.
Garratts Insurance Brokers has always concentrated solely on the corporate and commercial insurance markets.
Hargreave Hale Ltd
Marsden House
4-10 Springfield Road
Blackpool
PR4 2NA
Website www.hargreave-hale.co.uk
Established 1897
This firm of stockbrokers was originally founded by Mr Marsden W Hargreave, and the family maintain an active role in the firm. The first office was located in Blackpool, where the firm maintains its headquarters. Over the years, additional offices were opened in London, Carlisle, Bangor and Worcester.
In February 2001, the firm converted from a partnership to a limited company, and agreed to sell 35% of its equity to Investec Bank (UK) Ltd, which is part of the Investec financial services group.
This change means that Hargreaves Hale is an associate company of Investec Bank (UK) Ltd, but since Investec does not have a controlling stake in the firm it has been included in this list.
The firm prides itself on offering an efficient, personal service by offering products tailored to each client's individual needs.
The philosophy is to allow individual portfolio managers and investment advisors to make their own decisions depending on the research they have performed and the needs of each client.
John Potter & Harrison
Lytham Office
3a Clifton Square
Lytham St Annes
FY8 5JP
Website www.jpharrison.co.uk
Established c. 1900
Chartered accountants in Fylde, over 100 years but exact date unknown.
The website has only limited details about the company history, but does confirm that it is over 100 years old and that John Potter was the founding partner.
The firm states that it has developed over the years and in addition to the basic audit and accountancy services, it also advises clients on the many and varied aspects of their financial affairs. From its offices on the Fylde coast, the business provides support and advice for firms and individuals throughout the UK.
J Trickett & Son (Insurances) Ltd
13 Bank Street
Rawtenstall
Rossendale
BB4 6QS
Established 1882
Website www.trickettsinsurance.co.uk
The firm does not have a website but a local directory entry confirms the date of establishment of the firm and appears to assert that it is not owned by a larger organisation.
The company states that they are UK Based Independent Financial Advisors that have been providing financial advice to individuals and businesses since its inception.
KM Chartered Accountants
(KneeShaw Moffatt)
4-6 Grimshaw Street
Burnley
BB11 2AZ
Website www.kmaccountants.co.uk
Established 1909
The website states that KM is a trading name of KM Business Solutions Ltd, a company that is registered at the Grimshaw Street address.
The firm states that it offers all the services expected from an independent firm of Chartered Accountants such as accountancy, financial services, payroll, book keeping and tax services.
Haworth & Nuttall
7 Lord Street West
Blackburn
BB2 1LA
Website www.haworthnuttall.com
Established 1877
The website states that it is one of East Lancashire's largest legal firms with offices in Blackburn, Accrington and Great Harwood. The firm asserts that they are specialists in the commercial field, but still offer advice and assistance with general legal issues such as conveyancing, family law and personal injury.
Marsden Building Society
Principal Office
6-20 Russell Street
Nelson
BB9 7NJ
Website www.marsdenbs.co.uk
Established 1860
The society has been in existence since 1860, and has grown steadily as a strong independent regional building society with assets in the hundreds of millions of pounds. As a mutual it is run entirely for the benefit of its members who now exceed forty thousand. It's a company that remains true to the principles of its founders to encourage home ownership and savings.
The company states that it places emphasis on using local suppliers and provides jobs for over 150 people in 15 branches across the North West of England.
Moore & Smalley
Richard House
9 Winckley Square
Preston
PR1 3HP
Website www.mooreandsmalley.co.uk
Established 1892
Moore & Smalley is one of the region's leading independent providers of accounting and business advisory services to corporate and private clients.
In 1869, William Francis Moore began practising as an accountant, opening an office at 9 Chapel Street Preston. After some years his two sons joined him and business grew. However, the growth proved problematic and the business was amicably wound up.
Mr Moore Sr then offered a partnership to his chief clerk, Robert Edwin Smalley, who had been apprenticed to Mr Moore as an office boy in 1880. On 1 January 1892, the firm of Moore and Smalley was established.
The small practice founded by William Moore all those years ago had now grown into the largest Preston-based firm of Chartered Accountants.
Whether its services for growing businesses, business support, corporate finance, strategic consultancy, business advice, corporate financial planning, taxation services or financial planning and wealth management, Moore & Smalley aspire to exceed expectations in providing a first-class, cost-effective and dependable service.
Napthens Solicitors
7 Winckley Square
Preston
PR1 3JD
Website www.napthens.co.uk
Established 1800
Napthens has a proud heritage stretching back over two centuries, and today offers a broader range of services and represents a greater variety of clients than ever before.
One of the oldest and largest solicitors in Lancashire, the firm offers a range of services to meet the needs of both business and private clients and is structured into specialised departments, which aim to provide a fast, accurate service on a range of legal issues. The company considers that its enduring success is largely attributable to its emphasis on delivering a consistently customer-focused approach. It strives to continue to embody traditional professional values, whilst embracing the best of modern business practices.
From 1st November 2006, Napthens merged with Roscoes, a former very old established firm of solicitors, to create a larger commercial outfit with its headquarters in Preston. The combined firm is known as Napthens and, with branch offices in Blackburn, Bamber Bridge and Longridge, it covers a catchment area encompassing central, east and south Lancashire and the Ribble Valley. The combination of the firms is intended to create a firm large enough to accommodate all clients' needs, without them having to use Manchester or Liverpool firms.
Oglethorpe Sturton & Gillibrand
Lancaster Office
16 Castle Park
Lancaster
LA1 1YG
Website www.osg.co.uk
Established 1810
The website confirms that the firm has been in existence for over 150 years but Lancaster City Council kindly provided the date of establishment of 1810.
The firm of Oglethorpe Sturton & Gillibrand has a long tradition of satisfying generations of clients, while striving to move with the times and keep ahead of the competition by providing expertise and professionalism.
Ratcliffe & Bibby
3-7 New Street
Carnforth
LA5 9BU
Website www.ratcliffe-bibby.co.uk
Established c. 1900
For more than a century the firm has been providing independent legal services in a catchment area that stretches from Garstang to north in to South Cumbria. The company provides traditional services such as conveyancing, estate and tax planning, wills, personal injury, commercial, diviorce, County Court and High Court work.
Marsden Rawsthorn
4 Lune Street
Preston
PR1 2NL
Website www.marsdenrawsthorn.com
Established 1870
A leading firm of solicitors with offices in Preston and Chorley that has a direct lineage that can be traced back to the 19th century. The firm aims to provide high quality, friendly and cost effective legal advice to both corporate and private clients throughout the region.
The firm was initially listed as Rawsthorns Solicitors, but a merger in May 2007 with Marsdens led to the creation of the present business.
Rushtons Chartered Accountants
Starkie House
Winckley Square
Preston
PR1 3JJ
Website www.rushtonsaccountants.com
Established c. 1885
The practice of Rushtons was first established in Preston during the 1880s, and the present partners steadfastly maintain the philosophy which has been inherent in the practice for so many years. The company's overriding priority is that of close personal attention to the affairs of all our clients, whether they be large organisations or individuals.
As the financial environment becomes ever more complex, the company has recognised the need for specialist assistance to enable and therefore are members of the UK 200 Group, which is a nationwide network of independent firms of Chartered Accountants. This Group exists to pool the considerable resources, experience and knowledge of its member firms.
Southerns Solicitors
Mackenzie House
66/68 Bank Parade
Burnley
BB11 1UB
Website www.southernslaw.co.uk
Established 1792
The website states that it is one of the longest established firms of solicitors in north east Lancashire and has offices in Burnley, Nelson and Colne. The origins of the firm can be traced back to the formation of a legal practice by one Lawrence Shaw in Burnley. After a number of changes of name the firm has practised under the name of Southerns since 1999.
Southerns is a general firm of solicitors and the firm aspires to embrace new methods of legal practice and technology in order to offer all its clients a first class service.
Waddington & Son Solicitors
28 Manchester Road
Burnley
BB11 1HH
Website www.waddingtonandson.co.uk
Established 1908
A solicitors business with branches in Burnley and Padiham that celebrates its centenary in 2008. The website states that it retains a strong commitment to the traditional family values to private client, as well as supplying a range of specialist commercial services to business clients.
Waters & Atkinson
The Old Court House
Clark Street
Morecambe
LA4 5HR
Website www.watersandatkinson.co.uk
Established c. 1875
The firm was formed by one Henry Waters and has been serving the business community as accountants and business advisors since its inception. The company states that it aims to "make it our business to know your business because our success depends on your success".
Woodcock & Sons
West View
Princess Street
Haslingden
Rossendale
BB4 6NW
Website www.woodcocks.co.uk
Established 1791
Woodcock and Sons has been established for over 200 years and their website claims that it is the oldest family firm of solicitors in which the original founding family has maintained its involvement throughout the whole of its history.
The firm is an amalgam of two firms each originally founded by the Woodcock family. The oldest branch actually was started by Samuel Woodcock in Bury, whilst the nephew of the original founder began to practice as a solicitor in Haslingden in 1821. It was the Haslingden firm that later became known as Woodcock and Sons.
Bury is outside the present administrative local authority area of Lancashire, but since the Haslingden branch (inside Lancashire) gave the name to the present company, it has been decided to include it in the list of old Lancashire firms.
The business has six branches of which four are within the Lancashire administrative area.
Winter & Kidson Multimedia
28 Broadgate
Preston
PR1 8DX
Website www.wkm.co.uk
Established 1883
If the website did not mention that the company was founded in 1883, it would seem impossible to suggest from the content of the site that the company had such a long history. It seems somewhat of an understatement when the company states that it has constantly evolved to achieve its position at the forefront of modern day multimedia design. Services are split in to the following categories: web design, design and print, photography, exhibitions, display, video.
WS Rothband & Co. Ltd
4-6 Knowsley Road
Haslingden
Rossendale
BB4 4RX
Website www.rothband.com
Established 1860
The website states that the firm is a family business and that it may be a few years older than the stated dated of establishment. The product range has undergone significant developments over the years with the emphasis being in the field of health care. The company website list the wide range of items available, but it is not clear whether all or some are manufactured in-house or if the business is primarily a wholesaler. The assumption has been made that the firm should be classified in the latter category.
First established by the company's namesake in Manchester, the firm initially manufactured small makeup/sponge bags from waterproof cloth. The business grew and diversified into other rubber products (sheets, aprons, enema bags, "Gentlemen's preventives" etc.), medical glassware and surgical items.
Rubber sheeting for bed protection was the mainstay of the business by the turn of the century and continued to be a major line until the 1950s.
It was however around 1910 that a relative introduced the firm to lead rubber for use as an "X-RAY CLOTH". Other developments since have seen the introduction of leaded gloves, double-sided aprons, shoulder fastenings, coat-style aprons for all-round protection, closed-side aprons and theatre aprons.
The X-ray side of the business continued to expand, which led to the move to larger premises in Rossendale.
In 1994, the company acquired Duffield Medical, which enabled the firm to expand into physiotherapy sales and led to a new range of variable-height couches suitable for echo-cardiography, ultrasound and outpatient use.
In 1998, the company commenced manufacture of fixed lead screens together with the supply of Pb glass and perspex, so they can now cater for most X-ray protective needs.
4.5 Transport Sector
The year 2007 represents the centenary for John Fishwick & Sons and continues to operate regular public transport bus services primarily in the Preston-Leyland-Chorley region. To continue to exist in a market segment dominated by such large players as First Group and Stagecoach is a big achievement. There are other long-established local bus companies in Lancashire, but they have spent much of their time under local authority control and influence. Fishwicks has been privately run through its entire history.
A vehicle repair business would not normally be classified under a Transport Sector heading, but given the limited number of industrial and commercial sectors in this article, Gillibrand has been placed in this category.
Clark & Sons
Unit 23
Cocker Avenue
Poulton-Le-Fylde
FY6 8JU
No website
Established 1909
The firm does not appear to have a website therefore details are limited. The date of establishment was obtained from a Yellow Pages advert that states that the firm offers a domestic, office and overseas removals services.
Gillibrand
Furthergate Street
Blackburn
BB1 1NW
Website www.gillibrand.co.uk
Established 1859
Gillibrand was originally established by Mr J Gillibrand, who started building horse-drawn carts in a small workshop very close to where the business is currently located. The firm had its own wheelwrights shop and blacksmiths forge. As more sophisticated modes of transport developed the business adapted accordingly and nowadays undertakes the repair of motor vehicles as well as repairing and painting of large commercial vehicles. It is a classic example of a business that has moved with the times and adapted to the demands of the Repair Industry and its customers needs.
In the early part of the 1950s the business was acquired from the Gillibrand family by Thomas Ellis, who had originally worked for the company as an apprentice in the 1920s.
The ongoing success of the business was reflected in the expansion of the workshop to accommodate the new car repair business and the building. There were a number of extensions carried out during the 1960s and 1970s, which provided the 20,000 square feet of workshop space still used today.
John Fishwick & Sons
Golden Hill Lane
Leyland
PR25 3LE
Website www.fishwicks.co.uk
Established 1907
In 1907 John Fishwick moved from Wales to Leyland looking for work. He bought a steam propelled wagon from a local company, the Lancashire Steam Motor Co., which later became Leyland Motors Ltd. The wagon was used on road building contracts and for hauling goods from the local factories.
The passenger side of the John Fishwick's business followed some 3 years later, when the second vehicle, a petrol engine wagon, was converted at weekends to carry passengers on shopping trips to the neighbouring town of Preston.
John Fishwick and Sons is now one of the longest continuously family owned transport companies in the UK. Fishwicks offer an extensive range of luxury coach holidays and daily excursions throughout the UK and Europe, cruises and international holidays by air as well as providing local public transport services and private coach hire. In 2007 Fishwicks will celebrate its 100th year in the transport business.
The Travellers Choice
The Coach and Travel Centre
Scotland Road
Carnforth
LA5 9RQ
Website www.travellerschoice.co.uk
Established 1872
The website confirms that the Coach Travel firm has sales offices in Carnforth in Lancashire and Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria. It is assumed that the Carnforth premises form the Headquarters of the company because the website states that it operates from a modern, purpose built coach and travel centre located alongside the M6 motorway.
The company was founded by Robert Shaw in 1872, and the website asserts that the family business continually aims to maintain his objectives for quality and service.
Travellers Choice has a fleet of around 60 modern vehicles ranging from 8-Seater Mini Coaches to 71-Seater Luxury Coaches for Group travel Educational Visits and Corporate events etc in the UK and Europe.Tarleton Boatyard
Tarleton
PR4 6HD
Website www.tarletonboatyard.com
Established 1904
The website contains only limited details about the history of the company, but confirms that the business can trace its roots back to 1904 when it was first established by the James Major family. It has now been at its present location since 1924. Nowadays, the business offers a variety of services including building new narrow boats, boat repair and transportation.Whittle Movers Group
Units 1-4
Charnley Fold Lane
Bamber Bridge
Preston
PR5 6AA
Website www.whittle.co.uk
Established 1880
Whittle Movers Group has been trading successfully from its headquarters in Preston since it was first established. It has evolved from a small family business to a modern international removals and storage firm.
The Group has kept pace with modern methods and the need to continually, but the firm states that Whittle employees have also kept faith with the timeless principles of personal service and offering great value for money.
In addition to its long-standing home moving service, the company now has sections that cover Office and Commercial Moving and Military Moving business areas.
4.6 Tourism Sector
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Ocean Boulevard
Blackpool
FY4 1EZ
Website www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com
Established 1900
William George Bean founded Pleasure Beach, Blackpool in 1896 and bought the forty two acre site on which the Pleasure Beach now stands. His vision was of an, 'American Style Amusement Park, the fundamental principle of which is to make adults feel like children again and to inspire gaiety of a primarily innocent character'.
Various rides, including the still popular Sir Hiram Maxim Flying Machines, were introduced to the area. The 1930s saw the introduction of many new rides, including The Rollercoaster, The Pleasure Beach Express, and the world-famous twin track coaster, The Grand National. After the war the Company continued to prosper. The '60s saw a resurgence of development projects and it was during this era that Britain's first commercial Monorail was built at the Pleasure Beach and new rides - The Monster, The Astro Swirl and the Log Flume were introduced.
Pleasure Beach, Blackpool has been consistently profitable and these profits have been re-invested in new rides and the development and upgrading of the Park. 1994 saw an investment of £12 million for the Pepsi Max Big One, at the time Europe's tallest and fastest rollercoaster.
The year 2000 saw the biggest investment to date of £15 million when Pleasure Beach, Blackpool opened, Valhalla, the world's biggest dark ride. Another Pleasure Beach first happened in Spring 2003 as The Big Blue Hotel opened its doors at the south end of the park offering luxury accommodation at an affordable price.
Over recent years the Pleasure Beach's Business strategy had moved away from launching a spectacular new ride every few years. The focus moved towards developing its own hotel capacity for short-break visitors and to invest in improved stage shows, to reduce the impact of bad weather and appeal to a wider audience including families. The announcement in 2006 that a new ride called 'Infusion' will open to 2007, and occupy the former Log Flume ride site, represents the emphasis focusing back towards investing in major new rides.
Blackpool has for a while been experiencing a cycle of long-term decline exacerbated by cheap flights to overseas resorts and alternative sources of entertainment. The Pleasure Beach continues to invest and work hard to prosper in a challenging economic environment.
4.7 Funeral Directors/Monumental Masons
A business sector that across the country is closely associated with long-established independent local firms that provide a valued service at times of great sadness for their customers. This particular article contains a brief selection of the type of firms that operate in this sector that have websites. A comprehensive list would include a number of similar local firms.
Brent Stevenson Memorials
381 Preston Old Road
Blackburn
BB2 5LL
Website www.brentstevensonmemorials.co.uk
Established 1883
The Stevenson Family has been memorial masons for six generations and the website states that the business remains strong in quality, professionalism and the understanding of the needs of the bereaved. With extensive knowledge of the industry, the company is able to advise on all aspects of memorial inscription, erection, types of design, maintenance, insurance and cemetery and churchyard regulations.
ET Birtwistle & Sons Ltd
29 Queen Street
Great Harwood
BB6 7SA
No website
Established 1832
In 1832 ET Birtwistle & Sons was started by Daniel Birtwistle in premises in Club Street, Great Harwood. The business was passed to his nephew Edward Thomas whose four sons, Walter, James, Thomas and Hartley all worked for the firm, which became a limited company in 1936. The business then passed to Hartley's son Edward and his son-in-law Joseph.
In 1962 the congregational church in Queen Street was purchased and converted into a chapel of rest.
Talbot Funeral Services
Harwood House
341 Whalley New Road
Blackburn
BB1 9SR
No website
Established 1876
A company that has operated from same location ever since it was first founded by Thomas Talbot. According to the website, although the business has continued to develop and really began to flourish in the early 1950s, under the stewardship of qualified Funeral Director and Embalmer John Bentley and his wife Edith.
4.8 Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing
The Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing sector report emphasises how over recent generations, agriculture in Lancashire as elsewhere in the UK has become bigger, more intensive and more specialised. The article however also reveals that the average farm size in the County of 40 hectares is well below the England average of 60 hectares, therefore implying that the County will probably have more of a bias towards old established firms in this traditional sector than would be apparent in other parts of the Country. Part of this tendency towards smaller establishments is the number of horticulture businesses in West Lancashire that tend to be of a smaller scale.
With about 217,000ha or 72% of its total land area under farming use, and around 6,800 farm holdings in Lancashire, it has to be expected that comprehensive details for all the businesses in the sector would highlight a significant number that could trace their family involvement in the business back for over 100 years.
The agricultural sector has a very low business churn rate having both exceptionally low rates of new business formation and very high rates of business survival. In areas in Lancashire with above-average shares of agricultural businesses the statistical effect is to increase the apparent average age of the business stock.
Many of these businesses are unknown to the general public and details are difficult to verify, but over recent years, some have diversified in to farm shops and providing accommodation etc., thereby investing in a web presence. The difficulties in deriving the age of some of these businesses that have their roots in farming is exemplified by the entry for Huntleys which has an indeterminate date of establishment, but the website confirms the family's involvement in local farming for hundreds of years. Another example is a well-known Lancashire biscuit manufacturer, Farmhouse Biscuits, that probably should be entitled to its own entry, but the website gives no indication on the year of origin for the original farming business, or the year that the long-running biscuit manufacture part of the business first commenced.
The following list of firms therefore only provides a very brief selection of the type of firms in this sector.
Ashlea Limited
Scotland Road
Carnforth
Lancashire
LA5 9RE
Website www.ashlea-landscaping.co.uk
Established 1910
The website has only brief details of the company's heritage, but does confirm the date of establishment, the fact that Carnforth is the location for the head office, and that it is a privately owned company.
Ashlea Limited undertakes all aspects of hard and soft landscaping, including site clearance, earthworks, top soiling, seeding, turfing, tree, and ornamental shrub planting.
Clitheroe Auction Mart
Ribblesdale Centre
Lincoln Way
Clitheroe
BB7 1QD
Website www.auctionmart.co.uk
Established 1897
The website www.ukdata.com gives a date of incorpration for the company that has been used to derive the date of establishment. The company is somewhat specialised in nature which means that it is a little removed from the competotive commercial preseures that most companies have to face, but it is still open to competition and has to trade profitably to stay in business.
Clitheroe Auction Mart has regular weekly auctions of livestock, antiques, furniture, equestrian items and horses, machinery and plant. The website states that the Auction Mart has over 100 years of history in the Ribble Valley, and includes Silverwoods as a division of the Company, which specialises in the auction of antiques, furniture and fine art and the sale of rural property and quota.
Dugdale Nutrition
Bellman Mill
Salthill
Clitheroe
BB7 1QW
Website www.dugdalenutrition.com
Established c. 1855
Dugdale Nutrition is the UK's leading regional ruminant feed manufacturer. Dugdale Nutrition offers cutting edge management and nutritional advice together with feeds of excellence and quality.
Centrally located to dairy, beef and sheep farms in the heart of the North West, Dugdale Nutrition focuses on building long-term business partnerships with its customers whether their business is large or small.
Dugdale Nutrition is an independently owned family company, which has focused on innovation in the ruminant sector for more than 150 years.
Huntleys
Huntley Gate Farm
Whalley Road
Samlesbury
PR5 0UN
Website www.huntleys.co.uk
Established over 100 years
A firm that epitomises the difficulty in trying to pin down the age of a business in this sector. According to the company's website, the Owner and Managing Director of Huntleys, can trace his family history in farming in the locality back for an astonishing period of over 800 years, yet the history of the current business is unclear. This uncertainty would normally lead to the company being excluded, but this farming business has been added as a representative example of all farms in the area that can trace their lineage back for many generations.
It was not until 2001, that in order to supplement its existing arable and livestock farming, a 750 sq ft farm shop selling milk, home-made ice cream and meat to the general public was opened. Today, the main shop now boasts a restaurant, sells over 70 flavours of ice-cream, homemade cakes and more.
From picking up the 2005 East Lancashire Retailer of the Year award to being celebrated as one of Rick Stein's Food Heroes, Huntleys is proud to be investing in local produce and delivering a high quality and personable service.
Ingles' Dawndew Salad Ltd
Fouldrey Avenue
Poulton-le-Fylde
FY6 7HE
Website www.dawndew.co.uk
Established 1907
The website states that the company is a privately owned family firm that has been based in the area since the founder, Thomas Ingle, started growing various crops on an acre of rented land in Thornton Cleveleys.
Over the years, the firm started to look for customers further afield, and in the 1980s began to purchase vehicles to service these markets.
The company asserts that it has captured much of the country's salad market, and specialises in growing salad cress and beansprouts. It can also supply a wide range of complementary salad produce from Europe to customers across the country with its fleet of refrigerated wagons.
After relocating to Poulton-Le-Fylde in 1990, the company changed its name to 'Ingles' Dawndew Salad, and moved in to a single-roofed five-acre greenhouse complex. It states that it operates an efficient service to the highest level of food safety, using an environmentally friendly policy.
Mahood Brothers Ltd
Burscough Nurseries
Ring O'Bells Lane
Burscough
Ormskirk
L40 5US
Website www.mahoods.co.uk
Established 1910
The website states that they are growers and suppliers of nursery stock to local authorities, architects and the landscape trade. The website unfortunately has little information regarding the heritage of the firm, therefore it has been assumed with no evidence to the contrary that they are an independent Lancashire firm.
Pembertons Dairies
Birks Farm
Ballam Road
Lytham St Annes
FY8 4NL
Website www.pembertonsdairies.co.uk
Established c. 1875
The website contains only brief details, but states that it has been a family run firm for over 130 years. The site states that they provide a local doorstep milk delivery service and also offer eggs, fruit juice, potatoes and mineral water.
W Robinson & Son (Seeds & Plants) Ltd
Sunny Bank
Forton
Nr. Preston
PR3 0BN
Website www.mammothonion.co.uk
Established 1860
The founder, William Robinson, started the nursery by growing soft fruit, apples, plums and pears to onions and leeks.
The next generation started to improve the size of onions and leeks in particular which were exhibited at local Flower Shows. Soon other exhibitors wanted to grow the strain and the business was born.
The nursery seed bank holds many varieties of unusual vegetables. Some grown over the years for their looks, others for their taste. All are still maintained by the same stringent criteria as for the past 140 years.
The company is pleased and proud to be a true family business and assures all customers that seeds are grown using natural methods.
The ground where the exhibition vegetables are grown is the same and indeed has been prepared to the same formula for all the 140 years, using natural products. All varieties sold are well known not only for size, but for flavour and quality, and have given many gardeners results to be proud of over a long number of years.
Vegetable Seeds and Plants can nowadays be ordered by fax, phone, post or via the website.
Section 5: Selected Non-Independent Old Lancashire Firms
5.1 Old Lancashire Firms Now Part of Larger Organisations
A number of old Lancashire firms that originally began trading over 100 years ago now form parts of much larger organisations therefore they do not qualify as being independently owned.
A full list of these firms would be quite extensive but some noticeable old Lancashire firms that maintain their well-known traditional brand names within these larger groupings, and together offer significant numbers of local jobs, include Leyland Trucks now owned by the American Firm Paccar Trucks; Hollands Pies, now part of Northern Foods, William Blythe Ltd owned by Yule Catto; William Reed Weaving in Nelson, which is now an integral part of Allied Textiles Ltd; Trutex in Clitheroe; and Andrew Muirhead & Son Ltd.
Shaws of Darwen has been trading since 1897 and was bought in a management buyout in 2009 after the parent company had its shares suspended on the stockmarket, therefore has once again become an independent firm. The website does not confirm present ownership details and epitomises the difficulty of identifying old firms that have a continuous history of independent trading.
A particularly old company that is no longer in the main list is WM Lawrence & Sons that is now part of a larger organisation.
Another old family-run company (Hilden Manufacturing) went into administration in 2008 and was bought by the Manchester-based linens firm Vision Support Services Group (VSS). This resulted in it being removed from the list of independent Lancashire businesses.
5.2 Other Old Independent Firms
There are many long established firms that trade in Lancashire, but whose headquarters are outside the County. A list of these firms, which for instance would include a number of mutual building societies and retailers, would be extensive but one that has significant production facilities in the County and which is therefore worth a mention is the bakery firm Warburtons. It is a Bolton firm but has Bakeries in Burnley and Blackpool, and a depot also in Blackpool.
There is also a selection of old independent firms that are very close to the Lancashire boundary and therefore provide potential employment opportunities for the County's residents. Ernest Platts (Bury) Ltd in Ramsbottom is just 450 metres outside the local government administrative county boundary of Lancashire, whilst also worth a mention is Richard Turner & Sons founded in 1803. The company with an office near Clitheroe is responsible for Gisburn Auction Mart, but its HQ appears to be just outside the county in the North Yorkshire village of Bentham.
A final mention goes to an old independent firm that started trading in Ormskirk and is still run by the same family, but its headquarters are now just outside the local authority administrative area of Lancashire. Established in 1899, Stokers Furnishers still has premises in Derby Street Ormskirk, but its head office is in Hoghton Street, Southport.