H&E Smith, the specialist tile manufacturer based in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, has reached its 100th year of trading, the company has confirmed. The firm, which began life in 1926 as Smith & Warrilow, traces its evolution from glazed fireplace tiles to bespoke ceramic wall tiles for public and commercial projects.
Roots in Stoke-on-Trent and survival through changing markets
The business grew through mid-20th century demand for fireplace tiles, a boom that helped finance the present factory on Broom Street built in 1960. Today the workforce remains small and specialist; staff numbers are modest but the company says the unit continues to serve select clients, among them London Underground and hospitality venues.
Adapting production to preserve margins
Management describes a deliberate shift in how the factory operates. Where continuous firing of large runs once dominated, production is now intermittent and made-to-order. That change has helped the company manage rising input and labour costs by aligning output to demand and protecting margins.
"I hope it carries on, keeps the name, keeps the traditions, finds the right niches in the market,"
The remark came from managing director Fred Smith, grandson of one of the original partners. He emphasised the benefits of owning property as a financial buffer in tougher years and outlined how tighter control over production volumes allows the firm to choose customers and pricing.
Local impact and what the centenary means
For Stoke-on-Trent, the milestone underlines the city’s continuing link with ceramic manufacturing. The firm’s century-long presence reflects both the region’s industrial roots and the way some manufacturers have survived by specialising rather than competing on scale alone.
- Founded: 1926 (as Smith & Warrilow)
- Factory site on Broom Street built: 1960
- Clients include: London Underground and hospitality sector
- Current staff: approximately 25
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding year | 1926 |
| Factory established | 1960 (Broom Street, Hanley) |
| Notable clients | London Underground, hospitality venues |
The company’s managing director said turnover has been improving year-on-year and that the firm is focused on producing bespoke runs at prices that reflect their specialist offer. He recalled growing up around the site, describing how the business has been family-centred across generations.
As H&E Smith celebrates a century, the story is a reminder of how local manufacturers have navigated decades of changing consumer demand and economic pressure by finding and maintaining niche markets. For the city, the milestone is a quiet but tangible piece of Stoke-on-Trent’s industrial continuity.
