About us
Innovation is in our DNA
British Millerain textiles are crafted in England, using skills handed down through six generations of the Miller Family and over a century of innovation. Established in 1880, we pioneered the development of waxed cotton and are recognised as a global leader in specialist textiles for outerwear and technical applications.
Since the introduction of the first patented Millerain® rainproof finish in 1894, our weatherproof products have diversified into both apparel and industrial sectors. Through extensive refinement, development, and rigorous testing over the past century, British Millerain has established itself as the foremost manufacturer and innovator of waxed cotton and durable, aesthetically pleasing fabrics for outdoor applications.
Remaining committed to the family values that have shaped the business from its inception, British Millerain is dedicated to launching new products that integrate traditional and modern technologies. Our collection of textiles includes the timeless waxed cotton classics, and innovative dry wax adaptations. All with excellent weather-resistant performance, built to last and strong sustainability credentials.
Sustainability is central to our operations, we responsibly source organic and BCI cotton, and our manufacturing processes have been optimised over decades to reduce water and energy consumption. With the installation of over 500 solar panels, we now harness the sun’s energy to drive our finishing machinery.
We do not use hazardous chemicals, ensuring that our fabrics are free from such substances. Our fabrics are Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 certified and pass European REACH regulation, giving assurances to you and your customers.
Global leaders since 1880
From humble beginnings. The Miller family embarked on a venture to design and manufacture textile finishing machinery specifically for outdoor use. It is said that the initial funds to launch the business were generated by selling pies at a local market.
In the subsequent ten years, as British Millerain honed its expertise in textile finishing, John Miller successfully designed and constructed a Textile Pressing and Finishing Machine that would soon be patented, providing a competitive advantage for the “Millerain” process. The company proceeded to secure patents in various European countries and the United States.
As the business grew, it was passed down through generations, with Michael Miller taking on the role of Chairman in 1983. Following several decades of acquisitions and relocations, the main factory returned to Rochdale, Lancashire.
Over the last few decades, substantial investments have been made in new machinery, factory expansion, and product innovation, ensuring we remain at the forefront of textile finishing for outerwear applications.
Timeless performance and aesthetic appeal
The enduring aesthetic charm and weather-resistant qualities of waxed cotton have secured its status as a staple in the outerwear lines of industry-leading brands. As the clothing sector increasingly prioritises sustainability, Millerain waxed cotton has gained significance in today's market. Our fabrics are designed for longevity and are free from harmful chemicals, certified to Oeko-Tex® Standard 100, and compliant with European REACH and California Prop 65 regulations.
A sustainable, durable textile
We have enhanced and streamlined our waxed cotton production methods over several decades to reduce water and energy consumption, while minimising waste. Notably, the waxing process itself is waterless and generates no waste, with our wax machine powered by over 500 solar panels installed on the factory roof.
One of the key features that places waxed cotton amongst of the most sustainable fabrics available today, is the ability to re-wax garments. When the wax layer dries over time, it can be replenished, restoring both the fabric's original performance and appearance. With proper maintenance, a wax jacket can endure for generations, making it a timeless heirloom.
Our journey
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, the key to giving the “Millerain” process its edge. British Millerain obtained the patents to cover countries in Europe and America.
1894 A.W.C. Miller Receives Certificates
Archibald Miller receives numerous certificates for passing exams: Inorganic Chemistry, Machine Construction & Drawing, Theoretical Mechanics, and Applied Mechanics Steam.
1897 Times of India
Indian troops used British Millerain fabric 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
The British Millerain factory was moved from Halifax to Whitworth, Lancashire.
1950 Mr. A. W. C. MILLER
Mr Archibald W. C. Miller was appointed Chairman of the Board, succeeding Mr John Miller.
1959 Mr. H. MILLER
Mr H. Miller was appointed Chairman of the Board.
1978 Mr. S. MILLER
Mr Stan Miller was appointed Chairman of the Board.
1981 Acquisition - Dux Willesden of Salford
British Millerain was enjoying continued success and a worldwide 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. M. A. MILLER
Michael Miller was appointed Chairman of the Board, succeeding his father, Mr Stan Miller.
1987 Acquisition - Francis Webster and Sons Ltd.
British Millerain acquired Francis Webster and Sons Ltd. spinners and weavers. The acquisition further strengthened the company's textile capabilities.
1998 Acquisition - Lakes Performance Fabrics Ltd.
British Millerain acquired Blakes Performance Fabrics Ltd., a specialist in coated high-performance textiles
2000 Acquisition - Carrington Performance Fabrics
Millerain acquired Carrington Performance Fabrics, a specialist in the manufacture of commercial canvases and workwear fabrics.
2005 Acquisition - J.T. Inglis
British Millerain acquired J.T. Inglis of Dundee, a specialist in textile manufacturing.
2013 Acquisition - Century Dyeing Ltd.
British Millerain acquired Century Dyeing Ltd., a specialist commission dye-house based in West Yorkshire. Century boasts a wide range of expertise and techniques in dyeing synthetics and cotton, including jig, jet, beam, and cold-pad batches.
2014 In-House Digital Printing
British Millerain invested over £500,000 in new dyeing machinery, factory renovation, and a state-of-the-art digital printer. The printer can rapidly print intricate patterns and solid shades, which can be finished with British Millerain’s signature or washable wax.
2015 Rochdale
British Millerain’s new production facility opened in Rochdale.
2016 Drapers Award Winner
British Millerain proudly won the Drapers Award for Fashion Supplier of the Year.
2019 Drapers Award Winner
British Millerain proudly won the Drapers Award for Fashion Supplier of the Year, twice! A proud achievement by the team.
2020 Expansion of Rochdale site
Significant investment of more than £2,000,000 into the Rochdale facility, with new machinery and site expansion by more than 10,000 ft²
2022 New solar farm
Successful installation of over 570 solar panels to the Rochdale factory roof. Driving our production processes with green energy, enhancing the sustainable credentials of our fabrics.
2024 17,000 ft² expansion
A new factory extension adding over 7,000 ft² of floor space and purchase of a new warehouse with an additional 10,000 fr2. The expansion marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing into the technical textile arena, providing ample space to meet our customers need for stock holding, and prompt delivery.
