Olly Smith, Company Director at independent retailer Smiths of Harrogate, reflects on the past 120 years as well as sharing an insight into what’s next for the family business.
Founded in 1906 by Frederick Smith, Smiths of Harrogate has been serving customers from the heart of Harrogate for 120 years. What began as a small second-hand furniture business has grown into one of Yorkshire’s largest independent furniture and bed retailers, while remaining proudly owned and run by the Smith family for five generations.
In 1935, the business moved into the former roller skating rink on Dragon Road, a landmark building that has been synonymous with Smiths ever since. Whilst the business has evolved enormously over the decades, its values have remained remarkably consistent – offering quality products, knowledgeable advice and exceptional service.
With this year marking its official 120 year milestone, the company plans to celebrate with customers. “120 years is a milestone we’re incredibly proud to reach,” said Olly – the great grandson of Frederick. “It’s an opportunity to thank the generations of customers, colleagues, suppliers and the wider Harrogate community who have supported the business over the years. Reaching 120 years simply wouldn’t have been possible without them.
“Today, six members of the Smith family, myself included, are involved in the business, with several generations continuing to work alongside one another. That continuity has helped shape the business for more than a century, with every generation building on the work of the last whilst continuing to invest for the future.”
Throughout each generation, the company has celebrated achievements, navigated through different challenges and, ultimately, leaving their own mark on the business. “Over the years we’ve traded through two World Wars, recessions, changing shopping habits and huge changes within the furniture industry,” Olly continued. “Every generation has adapted the business to suit the times whilst trying to leave it in a better position for the next.”
In fact, one of the biggest chapters in its history was moving into its current home. The former roller skating rink gave Smiths the opportunity to create the showroom it’s known for today. Did you know the business traded as Smiths The Rink back then too?
“More recently, we updated our brand to Smiths of Harrogate, which better reflects who we are today,” Olly added. “I’ve always worked alongside my father, Nick and uncle Richard, in what we still refer to as the “new” side of the business – a name that dates back to when Smiths sold both antiques and contemporary furniture.
“My grandfather, Reg Smith, who is now 95, is also still involved in the business, so there’s a real sense of continuity between the generations.”
In more recent history, Olly said that the last 12 months has been “challenging” but has also seen opportunities for the business to invest. “Like much of the industry, the last year has had its challenges, but we’ve been pleased with how the business has performed. Our focus has been on continuing to invest.
“We’ve completed a new shopfront, which has transformed the appearance of the building, and we’ve also completely redeveloped our dining department. Those projects have been well received and reflect our belief that the business should never stand still.
“We’re also seeing customers continue to value quality, comfort and longevity. They’re asking more questions about how products are made, where they’re made and what sets one product apart from another. People are taking a little longer to make decisions, but they’re taking the time to make the right decision.”
Reaching any milestone is a “proud” moment, but achieving 120 years has been an “incredibly proud” milestone for the business. And it hasn’t happened by accident. “Every generation of the Smith family has played its part in shaping the business, and we’ve been fortunate to have a fantastic team alongside us, many of whom have been with us for years,” Olly said.
“Their commitment, knowledge and loyalty have been a huge part of the business and they’ve played a significant role in helping us reach this milestone. One thing reaching 120 years has reminded me of, is just how many people have played a part in the journey.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has supported Smiths over the years – our customers, our suppliers and, perhaps most importantly, our team. Reaching 120 years isn’t the achievement of one person or one generation; it’s the result of a lot of good people working hard over a very long time.
“We’re incredibly proud of our history, but we’re just as excited about the future.”
