Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal was recently given an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how luxury British-made beds go from farm to factory.
The royal visit to British bedmaker Harrison Spinks’ farm at Bolton Percy, York, and its manufacturing facility in Leeds celebrated the family-run business’ achievements in sustainability and innovation, ending with the presentation of a prestigious King’s Award for Sustainable Development.
The visit began at the bedmaker’s Yorkshire farm, where The Princess Royal met the Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, Mrs. Jo Ropner, and the Harrison Spinks team including Chairman and family member Simon Spinks. Her Royal Highness learnt about Harrison Spinks’ sustainable farming practices, including its award-winning Wensleydale sheep and pioneering use of hemp and flax, which is processed into its own luxury mattress fillings.
During the visit, the company demonstrated its environmentally friendly processes, including its use of homegrown hemp and responsibly-sourced natural materials such as Traceable British Wool, its innovative ethical manufacturing practices, as well as its commitment to protecting the local environment and dedication to biodiversity on its farmland.
Afterwards, The Princess Royal was taken on a tour of the bedmaker’s Leeds manufacturing site with the Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Mr. Ed Anderson CBE, where they experienced the bespoke craftsmanship behind Harrison Spinks’ luxury beds and mattresses, including a live demonstration of the traditional hand side stitching, tape edging and tufting techniques, which the business has been championing for 180 years.
Simon Spinks, Chairman of Harrison Spinks, expressed his pride in the visit – he said: “We are deeply honoured and grateful to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to our farm and factory today, and thank her for taking the time to learn about our sustainable practices, meeting with our hard-working team, and presenting us with the King’s Award for Sustainable Development, which is an incredible privilege.
“This recognition reflects our team's unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation at every stage of production, from our farm to the final product. As a family business, we take so much pride in leading the industry towards a more responsible future, and we remain dedicated to making a positive impact on our local communities and the environment.
“Sustainability is at the core of everything we do, so The Princess Royal presenting us with this incredible award and taking the time to learn how we’re continuing to push the boundaries of what it means to be a sustainable business, has been a really special day for our entire team.”
The news comes shortly after Harrison Spinks was awarded the title of Bed Manufacturer of the Year at the 2024 National Bed Federation Awards, being commended for its commitment to sustainability and focused environmental achievements.
