Part of the John Lewis Partnership since 1953, Herbert Parkinson combines traditional textile skills with modern manufacturing technology. Its 180+ Partners, as employees are known within the business, produce made-to-measure curtains and blinds, cushions, and many of John Lewis’s natural-filled duvets and pillows.
The visit was led by Herbert Parkinson’s General Manager, Tracey Alcock, John Lewis Managing Director Will Kernan, and Product Development Manager, Sophie Bell-Carter. The tour covered Made to Measure curtains; voiles and blinds; duvets and pillows; and cushion home furnishings, tracing the manufacturing process from fabric inspection through cutting, joining, pinning, tracks and headers, hand sewing and machine stitching to final inspection and packaging.
During the visit, The Princess Royal learned about investment in new manufacturing capabilities and the development of broader roles for Partners. The Princess Royal also saw new automated manufacturing equipment, highlighting how skilled craftsmanship and technology work together to produce premium home textiles.
Alongside its investment in equipment, Herbert Parkinson supports training and apprenticeships to develop the skills needed for the business’s future. Upskilling and cross-training help staff build expertise across different areas of production, supporting a skilled and adaptable workforce.
The visit also provided an opportunity to raise awareness of British made products whose manufacturing origins consumers may not always see or consider.
At the conclusion of the tour, The Princess Royal unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the visit.
Adam Mansell, CEO of UKFT, said: “Herbert Parkinson shows the value of a close connection between UK manufacturing and retail. Its skilled team combines the flexibility to meet individual customer requirements with the speed to bring products to market, while delivering the quality John Lewis customers expect. Investment in technology, upskilling and cross-training strengthens that capability. It was a privilege to shine a light on the expertise behind these premium home textiles.”
Will Kernan, Managing Director, John Lewis "It was an absolute honour to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to celebrate the very best of British design, quality and craftsmanship at our Herbert Parkinson textile factory. What truly makes this place extraordinary is our fantastic Partners - seeing their pride, care, and technical expertise on the factory floor today was a powerful reminder of the unique strength of our Partnership. We are deeply grateful to Her Royal Highness for joining us to celebrate their unmatched dedication and heritage."
Tracey Alcock, General Manager, Herbert Parkinson "I am incredibly proud of our great Partners at Herbert Parkinson, who demonstrated their exceptional skills and talents during the tour. We are also immensely grateful to the UK Fashion and Textile Association for their instrumental role in supporting and arranging this visit. As a proud UKFT member, we work closely with the association to champion British manufacturing and develop our workforce."
About Herbert Parkinson
Herbert Parkinson is based in Darwen, Lancashire, and has been part of the John Lewis Partnership since 1953. The factory manufactures soft furnishings, including made-to-measure curtains and blinds, cushions, duvets and pillows.
