Fashion and tradition: how John Smedley is innovating in a tough market
In the final article in a series on high-end British manufacturing we look at a clothing brand that dates to the 18th century but is increasingly on-trend Making jeans again: the Hiut Denim factory in Cardigan Rolls-Royce rides high on craze for customisation Luxury leather: from wallets to cigar cases Tina is wielding a large pair of scissors with authority, slicing with immense skill and…
John Smedley, a clothing brand with roots dating back to the 18th century, is finding success in a challenging market by blending heritage with innovation. Located in the Peak District, Derbyshire, the company's oldest continuously operating factory houses both cutting-edge Japanese knitting technology and skilled artisans who complete garments by hand.
In Armthorpe, South Yorkshire, another smaller Smedley factory also finishes garments. Despite the decline of UK fashion manufacturing, John Smedley has managed to stay afloat by investing in new equipment and maintaining its commitment to craftsmanship. The company produces 4,500 items weekly, supplying high-end brands such as Lanvin, Margaret Howell, and Daks, as well as its own John Smedley and JS diffusion lines.
In 2024, the business invested over £4m in updating machinery to boost efficiency and expand its product range. John Smedley's managing director, Jess McGuire-Dudley, attributes the company's resurgence to its appeal to younger workers interested in craft skills and sustainability, as well as its strong work ethic. The brand continues to partner with celebrities and open new sales channels to maintain its position in the luxury market, which has seen a decline in UK fashion manufacturing over the past few decades.
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