John Smedley is a successful knitwear brand, but the name itself comes from one of the company's founders. The first John Smedley saw the start of a lineage that has allowed the company to expand and develop into what it is today. They have a proud history and the John Smedley name is an integral part of the brand’s past, present and future.

In 1819 John Smedley's son, also John Smedley, was apprenticed to the company and, after thorough training, took over at the helm six years later at the age of 24. With great energy and vision he set about modernizing and expanding the business. He made it his aim to bring the entire manufacturing process under one roof, using the finest materials.