John Smedley: A unique English brand

With economic woes dominating even the fashion headlines, knitwear manufacturer John Smedley has survived the test of time and continuing to operate a thriving business. His factory, founded at Lea Bridge in 1784, claims to be world's longest running factory manufacturer. Smedley has been making fine knitwear in Derbyshire for over 200 years, the family business was there at the birth of the industrial revolution, back when the first factories and looms were being built.

Smedley's success is unique, however, as the business of producing ready-to-wear in England is fast becoming a distant memory. The UK has become too expensive to manufacture and export goods in comparison to China, India, even Turkey. Somehow, though, John Smedley has managed to continue producing in England and keep his company thriving.

Perhaps it's Smedley's celebrity following, his luxury knitwear is loved by celebrities such as Victoria Beckham, Tom Cruise and Madonna. Or perhaps it's the company's vision and dedication to quality. John Smedley employs approximately 450 employees and made £13m in sales in 2007, to give you an idea.

Operating in a low-volume, niche market, the key to John Smedley's survival has been to concentrate on quality rather than price, says Dawne Stubbs, the company's brand manager. The fine-knit Merino wool and sea-island cotton cardigans, sweaters and tops John Smedley produces retail for about £100 each, according to a BBC report.

The company exports 70% of what it makes, primarily to Japan, where the press have a keen eye for the designs.

The company made a loss in 2002 and 2003 after it was forced to close its spinning division, with the loss of a substantial number of jobs. It used to supply woollen yarn to customers, including Marks & Spencer.

Smedley has since regained its success. In today's fast paced environment where quality and style are essential requirements, John Smedley product stands unique. From the design stage through to each area of manufacture the company strives for the best, and successfully combines tradition with modern techniques to produce garments unparalleled in design excellence.