The Full Story
British Flowerpots
British Flowerpots was founded in 2024, but our roots run deep. We’re the coming together of two proud, family-run businesses: Naylor Industries—a fourth-generation company with a history dating back to 1890—and Smith & Jennings, a passionate husband-and-wife team who began crafting high-quality pots in South Wales in 2013.
Together, we bring a blend of traditional craftsmanship, modern thinking, and a shared love of pottery. Though the name is new, our story is built on decades of experience, character, and care.
1890
Naylors is a 4th generation family business that first began manufacturing clay pipes in Denby Dale, Yorkshire in 1890.
They have been involved in constructing major local landmarks such as the Denby Dale viaduct. In 1961 they were the first in Europe to acquire a continuous tunnel kiln.
1993
Edward Naylor is a Cambridge modern languages graduate and double-prize winning chartered accountant. He took on the role of CEO of Naylor industries in 1993 following the passing of his father Allan Naylor.
The company went on to launch its Yorkshire Flowerpot range, making them the leading producer of British-made terracotta pottery.
1995
Husband and wife, Simon and Marie Smith each have over 30 years in the ceramics industry, having both earned a degree in ceramics and design.
After they were married and started their family, they moved with their young son Oliver to Malaysia to pursue their ceramic careers.
2000
In 2000 Nayor Industries' Yorkshire Flowerpot division put their first pot press into production.
They quickly became an iconic flowerpot brand, known for their distinct shapes and trademark Yorkshire Flowerpot banding.
2002
Simon & Marie, succesfully ran their Malaysia pottery for several years before they made the decision to relocate to Burma.
Here they completed extensive work in product design and glaze development. Equipped with years of experience and all they had learnt in Asia, they packed up their lives and returned to the UK with the ambition of starting their own business.
2013
After purchasing a facility in the Rhondda Valley, South Wales. Simon & Marie opened their own pottery - Smith & Jennings.
They quickly became known for their varied range of colourful glazes and exceptionally high-quality pots - the only of their kind to be made in Britain.
2023
Naylor Industries had made the decision to pause production of Yorkshire Flowerpots. Around the same time, conversations began between Naylor Industries and Smith & Jennings about the possibility of working together.
Smith & Jennings had reached full capacity at their South Wales site and were seeking room to grow, while Naylors were looking to diversify their range and refine their production techniques.
Together, they saw an opportunity: a new business to champion British-made pots, based in a purpose-built site with its own clay supply, and the ability to create a comprehensive range of handcrafted glazed and terracotta pots—made by skilled pot makers, combining tradition with innovation.
2024
British Flowerpots is born!
We are now proud to employ a fantastic team of over 20 staff across our production and merchandising departments.
Our first kiln was fired in November 2024, today we are proud to be the UK's leading producer of British-Made Pottery.
We are proudly family-run, rooted in tradition and powered by people that love what they do!
