Smith of Derby Acquires James Ritchie & Son Clockmakers

November 4, 2013 Heritage, News

On November 1st, Smith of Derby, the world-renowned clockmaker, showed its support of British manufacturing with the acquisition of James Ritchie & Son, Scotland’s oldest turret clock manufacturer.

IMG2352RThe James Ritchie & Son brand and name will continue to be used, and the Edinburgh company will be supported by Smith of Derby from its base in the Midlands. These developments build on many years of collaboration between the two companies.

The move helps to strengthen and support the long-term future of clock-making and conservation in Britain.

Joe Smith, Director of Smith of Derby Limited, said:

We are delighted to be associated with such a prestigious name as James Ritchie & Son and the move will help secure the future of two healthy companies.

Our policy, like James Ritchie & Son, is to employ and train locally, retaining and developing critical skills which will help broaden our experience and capabilities across the UK.

The two companies have much in common in terms of heritage and vision, and we feel this is the perfect partnership. The move shows our determination to work closely with other family-led and family-thinking companies to protect and invest in the future of British clock-making.

Alan Wilson, Managing Director of James Ritchie & Son, said:

This move is a result of a longstanding link between James Ritchie & Son and Smith of Derby, which stretches back over 30 years.

We have always maintained a strong association with Smith of Derby and this arrangement merges together two strong companies for the benefit of both the businesses and their customers. In many respects it feels like the natural evolution of an already close working relationship.

For more information on James Ritchie & Son Clockmakers please visit their website.

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