Who is
John Smedley?
John Smedley is a successful knitwear brand, but the name itself comes from one of the company's founders. The first John Smedley saw the start of a lineage that has allowed the company to expand and develop into what it is today. We have a proud history and the John Smedley name is an integral part of who we are and where we have come from.
In the beginning
John Smedley the company was founded in 1784 at Lea Mills, Derbyshire, by Peter Nightingale and his associate, the first John Smedley.
In its early days, the mill specialised in producing muslin and spinning cotton to send out to local cottages with hand frame looms. By the end of the 18th century, the company had extended its activities to include knitting and hosiery manufacture.
The second John Smedley
In 1819 John Smedley's son, also John Smedley, was apprenticed to the company and, after thorough training, took over at the helm six years later at the age of 24. With great energy and vision he set about modernising and expanding the business. He made it his aim to bring the entire manufacturing process under one roof, using the finest materials.
The second John Smedley achieved his goal and established a production line capable of manufacturing fine-gauge, fully fashioned underwear and fine knitted outerwear unparalleled in quality. He also extended the factory itself, installing new machinery and fostering the skill and loyalty of a growing workforce by providing sympathetic working conditions that were unusual for the age.
The third and fourth John Smedleys
The second John Smedley had no heir when he died in 1875. The business was passed on to a third John, a cousin, J T Marsden Smedley. He died soon after in 1877 and the company was entrusted to his son, the fourth John.
John B Marsden Smedley went on to expand the company even further. He was chairman for an impressive 70 years, during which he installed high-tech knitting machines and oversaw the business becoming a limited company in 1893. John B Marsden Smedley assembled the most versatile contemporary spinning mules and knitting machines in the country under one roof.
Going Local
The second John was arguably the most colourful and revolutionary of all the Smedleys. His vision and desire to expand had a huge impact on the company, but it also had a significant effect on the local area.
With a keen interest in philanthropy and hydropathy - the treatment of illness with water - he established the Smedley Hydro in Matlock. Visited by people from across the country, the Hydro was a roaring success and increased the area's profile.
John also built Riber Castle, an imposing structure that overlooks the town and can be seen for miles around. It remained the family home until 1880 and is currently being renovated and restored.
What's in a name?
Over the course of the 20th century, John Smedley the company built on its reputation for fine underwear production, incorporating swimwear and outerwear for men and women.
In the 1960s, the signature sweater line was developed, which became responsible for the growth in overseas markets. Today, more than 70% of all John Smedley product is exported to over 35 countries throughout the world.
Generations of experience
John Smedley has always recognised the importance of its highly skilled employees, who continue to be the cornerstone of the company's success. A growing and dedicated workforce was established early in our history. Younger generations of original Smedley workers can still be found at the factory today.
