Decades of knowledge carefully handed through generations. Browse our history and read about our milestones
Our Story
Whilst the technology has changed over the years, we remain faithful to our roots. Using historical documentation from the British Millerain archives, we are proud to share with you some of our heritage. Read on to view our timeline and discover the evolution of this time-honoured company and its textiles.
Towards the end of the 1880's, British Millerain began to develop fabrics which would suit a wide variety of clothing requirements, from the rigours of life in the armed forces to the demands of country pursuits. Since the advent of the first patented Millerain® rainproof finish in 1894, we have expanded our waterproof offerings into apparel and commercial markets.
Through more than a century of refinement, development and testing, we have earned a reputation as the leading manufacturer of Waxed Cottons and practical, aesthetic fabrics for outdoor applications.
Our family principles have never changed; we strive to bring new products to the market based on both our old and new technologies.
Our History
1880
Established
British Millerain was founded by a small group of labourers and academics, who opened the first factory in Halifax, Yorkshire, UK.
John Miller the elder and John Miller the younger were the leading lights of this team, driving the company to growth and prosperity.
1890
Obtained Patents Globally
After studying long and hard, John Miller the younger succeeded in designing and building a soon to be patented Textile Pressing and Finishing Machine, key to giving the “Millerain” process its edge.
In 1890 we obtained Patents to cover countries in Europe and America.
1894
A.W.C. Miller Receives Certificates
Archibald Miller receives numerous certificates for his passing of a series of exams:
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Machine Construction & Drawing
- Theoretical Mechanics
- Applied MechanicsSteam
1897
Times of india
In the late 1800s, British Millerain fabric was used by Indian troops on the frontline.
An original extract from the Times of India, dated September 1897, reads:
“The Government of India have sanctioned the use of Millerain Khaki Drill.”
“For the use of troops who in all probability will be ordered to the front.”
1922
Factory Move
In 1922, the British Millerain factory was moved from Halifax to Whitworth,Lancashire
1950
Mr. A. W. C. MILLER
Mr Archibald W. C. Miller appointed chairman to the board succeeding Mr John Miller.
1959
Mr. H. MILLER
Mr H. Miller appointed Chairman to the Board.
1978
Mr. S. MILLER
Mr Stan Miller appointed Chairman to the Board.
1981
Acquisition
By 1981, the Company was enjoying continued success and a world-wide reputation for the high quality of its finished fabrics. The decision to expand was made and the acquisition of Dux Willesden of Salford, whose trade was Cupra Ammonia and Dry Chemical Finishers, was completed.
1983
Mr. MICHAEL. A. MILLER
Michael Miller appointed Chairman to the board, succeeding his father Mr Stan Miller.
1987
Acquisition - Francis Webster and Sons Ltd.
After Mr M. Miller had been appointed to the board, it was time to take the next step in moving the company forward.
In 1987 the acquisition of Francis Webster and Sons Ltd spinners and weavers was completed. The acquisition strengthened further our textile capabilities.
1998
Acquisition
In 1998 the company acquired Blakes Performance Fabrics Ltd., specialists in coated high performance textiles.
2000
Acquisition
In 2000, Millerain acquired Carrington Performance Fabrics, specialists in the manufacture of commercial canvases and work wear fabrics.
2005
Acquisition of J.T. Inglis
Acquisition of J.T. Inglis of Dundee
2012
Facebook Launch
British Millerain has been operating for more than a century, so please join us in celebrating our longevity with our new website and Facebook page.
Please keep in touch by following our updates, news features and new products!
We look forward to providing our online audience with textile inspiration and heritage highlights.
2013
Acquisition of Century Dyeing Ltd.
In 2013, British Millerain acquired Century Dyeing ltd., a specialist commission dye-house based in West Yorkshire.
Century boast a wide range of expertise and techniques in dyeing synthetics and cottons, including; Jig, jet, Beam and Cold-Pad Batch.
2014
In-House Digital Printing
In 2014, British Millerain invested over £500,000 in new dyeing machinary, factory rennovation and a state-of-the art digital printer. The printer can rapidly print intricate patterns and solid shades, which can then be finished with our signature wax or washable wax.
2015
Rochdale
New production facility opened in Rochdale
2016
Drapers Award Winner
Bristish Millerain proudly win the Drapers Award for Fashion Supplier of the Year.
Head office & sales
British Millerain Co. Ltd.
Unit 1, Park Mill, Buckley Road, Rochdale, OL12 9DJ
Tel : +44 (0)1706 716 370
Tel : +44 (0)1706 716 379
Email : info@britishmillerain.com
