British United Shoe Machinery Co Ltd

Sectors:

  • Mechanical engineering Footwear making machinery production

Notes:

Established in 1899 through merger of UK businesses belonging to United Shoe Machinery Co of USA following the merger their businesses in the USA. The UK merger also included Pearson & Bennion Ltd whose shareholders took a 20 per cent interest. Initially largely distributors of imported machinery but from 1907 significant manufacturers at Leicester. Emerged as a major entity with 3,000 employees by 1930. Soon developed European subsidiaries. Subsequently acquired other UK businesses in the footwear machinery and materials sector. By 1970s one of largest businesses of its kind in world and Leicester's largest employer. Closed 2002/3

Groups: