THE LEDGER: YOUR MASTER SOURCING LIST
For deep-dive journals and photographic studies of UK-made icons, visit The Edit. Here in The Ledger you’ll find our ever-expanding directory of UK makers with details on their origins, products and more.
These are short-form entries - distilled intelligence on heritage, provenance and why these brands deserve a place in your collection. As our field research continues, we’ll produce full photographic reviews in The Edit.
SAMUEL GROVES - Birmingham, England
The Heritage: Founded in 1817 in the industrial heart of Birmingham, England. Samuel Groves began by manufacturing brass candlesticks before evolving into kitchenware. Today, they remain one of the very few heritage manufacturers still hand-finishing bespoke, heavy-duty cookware on UK soil.
The Verdict: Before outfitting the kitchens of Britain's top chefs, Samuel Groves built a legacy of enduring craftsmanship. Whether you are investing in their heritage copper induction pans or their Britannia cast-iron skillets - which are notably cast from 70% recycled materials—every piece is designed for generational durability. This is virtually a mandatory addition for the serious home chef who values authentic UK manufacturing.
Core Products: Professional-grade copper, stainless steel, and cast-iron cookware; heavy-duty bakeware.
FOOTPRINT TOOLS - Sheffield, England
The Heritage: Founded in 1875 by Thomas R. Ellin, this brand is a cornerstone of Sheffield's industrial identity, remaining in the same owning family since 1948.
The Verdict: Industrial survival at its finest. In a market flooded with cheap imports, Footprint remains one of the few places where you can still find a professional-grade chisel forged and finished on UK soil.
Core Products: Professional building tools including cold chisels, line pins, bolsters and the iconic Footprint pipe wrench.