THOMAS SMITH'S TRUGS - Herstmonceux, East Sussex

The Heritage: Established in 1829, Thomas Smith is the original inventor of the Sussex Trug. The company continues to handcraft these iconic wooden baskets in East Sussex, operating as the last facility actively training apprentices in this critically endangered craft.

The Verdict: A cornerstone of UK horticultural equipment. Crafted from sustainably coppiced local sweet chestnut and willow, a traditional Sussex trug represents an ideal intersection of historical utility, regional identity and environmental sustainability.

Core Products: Traditional wooden garden trugs and harvesting baskets.

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