About us

A Legacy in Jacquard Weaving: The Story of E & S Smith

From Family Business to Textile Industry Leader

In December 1984, Richard Smith joined his father, Stan, at the family-owned Jacquard weaving manufacturer E & S Smith (est. 1935) at Stadium Mills, Odsal, Bradford. Over the next two decades, the company transformed from a small weaver using Northrop shuttle looms and a team of 15 employees into one of the UK’s leading producers of inherently flame-retardant (FR Colour) woven Jacquard furnishing fabrics.

Innovation and Growth in the Bradford Textile Industry

Through major investments in modern weaving technology, staff training, and advanced CAD systems for design, the business embraced the new era of electronic Jacquards and sample warping technology. By 2000, E & S Smith employed 180 people across three Bradford-based factories. The company expanded further by acquiring Wm Denby (1824) Ltd, allowing it to bring dyeing and finishing processes in-house.

Their customer base grew to include major high street retailers and furniture manufacturers, cementing their reputation as a trusted UK textile manufacturer.

Fabrics Seen Around the World

E & S Smith fabrics were not only used in everyday furniture and drapery but also featured in exclusive global locations. Their woven Jacquard fabrics adorned ocean liners like the QE2, royal palaces, embassies, luxury hotels, and prestigious residences.

Closer to home, their fabrics appeared on British television — including the GMTV sofa and the iconic chairs where Terry Wogan welcomed VIP guests on the BBC.

E&S Smith, Stadium Mills, Odsal, Bradford

Stan Smith, Richard's father and David Drake E&S Smith mill manager standing by a loom in the mill in 1996

Stan Smith (father) and David Drake (mill manager) 1996

Close up of Jacquard fabric being woven on a loom

Top selling Inherent Flame proof Jacquard Furnishing

Storage cupboard filled with boxes of textile archives.

Small section of the Archive store

Richard M R Smith Textile Services
Richard looking at hangers of sample textiles
Richard Smith in his workshop

Supporting Independent Weavers and Global Brands

After the closure of the family mill, Richard continued to make a mark on the UK textile industry. He worked closely with several independent weavers while also collaborating with a division of Burberry, helping to develop exclusive non-Burberry furnishing fabrics.

Establishing a Textile Services & Sales Agency

In 2009, Richard launched his own textile services and sales agency, dedicated to developing and supplying high-quality furnishing fabrics from both UK and international mills. By combining the mills’ innovative design resources with his own extensive archive collection, Richard helps customers find fresh inspiration for their new textile projects.

Premium Textile Consultancy for Weavers and Wholesalers

With decades of experience in Jacquard weaving, fabric sourcing, and textile innovation, Richard has built a wealth of specialist knowledge. Today, he offers a premium consultancy service tailored to the needs of UK weavers, wholesalers, and fabric suppliers. His expertise supports businesses in product development, fabric design, and sourcing strategies.

Contact us

Access ranges of fabric from the international mills we represent, source inspiration from our Archive or let us assist you with manufacturing, logistic or new market challenges.

Get in touch