Speaker 25th May 2018 Richard M R Smith
Fri, May 25th 2018 at 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Evolution of Jacquard Weaving machine
In December 1984, Richard joined his father Stan in the family Jacquard weaving manufacturer E & S Smith (est 1935) at Stadium Mills, Odsal, Bradford. For the next 20 years they grew the family business from a small weaver using Northrop shuttle looms employing a staff of 15 to one of the UK leaders in the development and production of inherently flame retardant (FR Colour) woven Jacquard Furnishing Fabrics.
Investments in equipment, training and taking a technology leap into new Electronic jacquards, CAD systems and sample warping technology meant that by 2000 the company employed 180 people across three local factories and eventually entered the dyeing and finishing processes by purchasing Wm Denby (1824) ltd. Trade customers now included high street retailers and furniture manufacturers.
During these busy years, fabric produced at the factory found its way onto exclusive and everyday furniture and drapery around the world. Notable placements included furnishings on Ocean liners like the QE2, royal palaces, embassies, exclusive hotels and opulent residences.
The factories fabric could also be seen on early morning TV furnishing the GMTV sofa, and at teatime on the BBC situated on the chairs Terry Wogan sat his VIP guests on!
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