Mayor of Knowsley marks momentous occasion with factory tour.
Prescot-based Stoves, part of Glen Dimplex Home Appliances, celebrated its centenary today with a visit from Mayor of Knowsley, Councillor Jackie Harris.
Councillor Harris toured the manufacturing site before enjoying the first of a series of Centenary lunches alongside some of Stoves’ longest-serving employees – some of whom have been with the business for more than 50 years.
Over the next two weeks, staff members will be invited to a series of special lunches – each themed by decade, starting with the 1920s.
The brand, founded on Valentine’s Day, February 14th, 1920, began life in Warrington as a manufacturer of gas heaters.
Recognising the revolution that was happening in British kitchens, Stove began producing gas cookers for the local community.
It moved to its current manufacturing facility in Rainhill, Prescot in 1925.
Since then, Stoves has secured its place in British cooking and engineering history through a number of means, such as manufacturing munitions for the war effort to building the first range Bluetooth cooker.
To commemorate the centenary, Stoves will be working with local museums and historical societies to ensure that the company and its heritage is well represented within the community.
Staff will also be raising money for local charities throughout the year.
Mark Davison, Managing Director of Glen Dimplex Home Appliances, said: “A century is a significant milestone for any company and reaching it reflects the continuing relevance of Stoves in today’s marketplace.
“We are thrilled that Stoves remains so strong after 100 years and we are keen our celebrations will be focussed within our local area to recognise the role our employees, particularly the long servers, have played in Stoves’ success.
“The fact that the company has been in Prescot for so long means the local community is awash with memories and we hope to revisit some of those over the next few months as we celebrate this landmark anniversary.”
Councillor Jackie Harris said: “I was delighted to visit Stoves today and join in with its centenary celebrations.
“The company is an important part of Knowsley’s rich history and heritage as well as being a much valued employer in the local area.
“Congratulations on reaching this milestone.”