150 Years of Our People · 1876–2026
Heritage in Every Stitch: The Heart of British Manufacturing
For more than a century, the manufacturing floor at Richard Haworth has told a distinctly British story — one of skill, pride, and craftsmanship passed from one generation to the next. Today, it remains a vibrant hub of activity, where skilled operators produce every item with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality that has defined the mill for generations.
From its very beginnings in the early 20th century, Kearsley Mill has been more than just a workplace. It’s been a hub for local talent, drawing employees from Bolton, Salford, and the surrounding areas. Over the decades, many families have had two or even three generations work side by side here.
A Living Legacy of Craftsmanship
The following memories come from a Heritage Lottery-funded oral history project that recorded life in mills during the 20th century. In the 1930s–50s, former Jacquard loom operator Muriel Olive described her work with pride:
“It was marvellous the way it was done.”
She spoke of the artistry in weaving intricate patterns and the camaraderie of sharing meals while music played. Another long-serving employee, Raymond Traynor, remembered the energy on the floor:
“You could hear the clogs like horses thundering down the road.”
These values — cooperation, pride in craft, and meticulous attention to detail — are as important now as they were then. Every stitch sewn on today’s floor is backed by over a century of accumulated skill.
Millions of Hand-Crafted Linen, All Made with Care
Operators at Kearsley Mill have produced millions of hand-crafted linens — from crisp white bed sheets to perfectly pressed tablecloths — each made with care and precision. This is not faceless mass production; every piece passes through skilled hands, inspected to ensure no compromise on quality. Many operators have decades of experience, and that expertise shows in every detail. Our products are not only made to look and feel exceptional when new but also built to endure repeated commercial laundering without losing their finish or performance. This commitment has built our reputation for durability and consistency.
A Century of Local Employment — And Counting
55%
of our team have worked with us for over 10 years
Nearly 30%
for two decades or more
For over 100 years, Richard Haworth has been a steady employer in the local area. Families have built their lives around the mill, and the mill has grown thanks to their loyalty and pride in their work. Today, 55% of our team have worked with us for over 10 years, and nearly 30% for two decades or more — a rare achievement in modern business. This continuity contributes directly to our consistent quality, strong cohesion, and reputation for dependable service.
Rising to the Challenge: Producing Medical Scrubs
During the COVID-19 pandemic, with hospitality on hold, the team pivoted to producing medical scrubs for NHS staff. Under challenging conditions, our operators created around 400 scrubs each week and donated thousands of slippers, towels, and face cloths to support frontline workers. This demonstrated the adaptability and dedication at the heart of British manufacturing.
Delivering Excellence for Royal Occasions
In November 2023, Richard Haworth had the honour of supplying bespoke table coverings for a Royal State Visit at Buckingham Palace. Staff from production and installation oversaw the final fitting of linens, ensuring perfection for the state dining rooms. For those involved, it was a career-defining moment and a proud recognition of their craftsmanship.
Wellbeing and Work Culture
Richard Haworth is committed to fostering a workplace where staff feel valued, supported, and connected. Wellbeing initiatives include annual company days out, such as trips to the races, as well as yoga and movement sessions to promote physical wellbeing. New employees receive Environmental Awareness training as part of their induction, ensuring a sustainability-minded workforce, and the company also provides a Death in Service benefit to support families during difficult times.
In addition to these initiatives, monthly bonuses are offered against sales targets, rewarding employees for their contribution to the company’s ongoing success. The company is also proud to ensure that none of its staff are on the minimum wage; instead, the lowest pay offered is aligned with the Living Wage, reflecting a strong commitment to fairness, respect, and valuing the work of every individual. By investing in both professional and social wellbeing, Richard Haworth continues to build a culture of respect and pride that strengthens its reputation.
Training the Next Generation
In 2023, we launched a Sewing Skills Workshop to ensure essential manufacturing skills are passed on. Led by production supervisor Sharon Stevenson, the programme gives trainees hands-on experience with techniques perfected over decades. Local leaders praised the initiative.
Councillor Tracey Wilkinson said:
“It is fantastic to see a local company investing in the next generation of manufacturing talent. This is about more than just jobs — it’s about passing on skills that are part of our town’s identity.”
Mayor of Bolton Akhtar Zaman added:
“Bolton has a proud textile heritage, and Richard Haworth is ensuring it remains part of our future. It’s inspiring to see skills being preserved and shared, right here in our community.”
Looking Ahead to the Next 100 Years
Our ambition is simple — to keep this floor thriving for another century. That means investing in skills, technology, and people while preserving the quality that comes from experience. As Managing Director Raj Ruia puts it:
“It is due to our skilled seamstresses that our products are of the highest quality… We want to inspire the next generation to ensure these skills — and the jobs they support — continue to thrive here in the UK.”
Raj Ruia, Managing Director
When you buy a product made on our floor, you’re not just getting linen — you’re getting over a century of British craftsmanship, rooted in a community, and built to last.
Our Story
Our Values
Why Choose Our Bed Linen
