Our Story

Whilst the technology has changed over the years, we remain faithful to our roots. Using historical documentation from the British Millerain archives, we are proud to share with you some of our heritage. Read on to view our timeline and discover the evolution of this time-honoured company and its textiles.

Towards the end of the 1880's, British Millerain began to develop fabrics which would suit a wide variety of clothing requirements, from the rigours of life in the armed forces to the demands of country pursuits. Since the advent of the first patented Millerain® rainproof finish in 1894, we have expanded our waterproof offerings into apparel and commercial markets.

Through more than a century of refinement, development and testing, we have earned a reputation as the leading manufacturer of Waxed Cottons and practical, aesthetic fabrics for outdoor applications.

Our family principles have never changed; we strive to bring new products to the market based on both our old and new technologies.

Our History

Decades of knowledge carefully handed through generations. Browse our history and read about our milestones

1880

Established

British Millerain was founded by a small group of labourers and academics, who opened the first factory in Halifax, Yorkshire, UK.

John Miller the elder and John Miller the younger were the leading lights of this team, driving the company to growth and prosperity.

1890

Obtained Patents Globally

After studying long and hard, John Miller the younger succeeded in designing and building a soon to be patented Textile Pressing and Finishing Machine, key to giving the “Millerain” process its edge.

In 1890 we obtained Patents to cover countries in Europe and America.

1894

A.W.C. Miller Receives Certificates

Archibald Miller receives numerous certificates for his passing of a series of exams:

  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Machine Construction & Drawing
  • Theoretical Mechanics
  • Applied MechanicsSteam
1897

Times of india

In the late 1800s, British Millerain fabric was used by Indian troops on the frontline.

An original extract from the Times of India, dated September 1897, reads:

“The Government of India have sanctioned the use of Millerain Khaki Drill.”

“For the use of troops who in all probability will be ordered to the front.”

1922

Factory Move

In 1922, the British Millerain factory was moved from Halifax to Whitworth,Lancashire

1950

Mr. A. W. C. MILLER

Mr Archibald W. C. Miller appointed chairman to the board succeeding Mr John Miller.

1959

Mr. H. MILLER

Mr H. Miller appointed Chairman to the Board.

1978

Mr. S. MILLER

Mr Stan Miller appointed Chairman to the Board.

1981

Acquisition

By 1981, the Company was enjoying continued success and a world-wide reputation for the high quality of its finished fabrics. The decision to expand was made and the acquisition of Dux Willesden of Salford, whose trade was Cupra Ammonia and Dry Chemical Finishers, was completed.
1983

Mr. MICHAEL. A. MILLER

Michael Miller appointed Chairman to the board, succeeding his father Mr Stan Miller.

1987

Acquisition - Francis Webster and Sons Ltd.

After Mr M. Miller had been appointed to the board, it was time to take the next step in moving the company forward.

In 1987 the acquisition of Francis Webster and Sons Ltd spinners and weavers was completed. The acquisition strengthened further our textile capabilities.

1998

Acquisition

In 1998 the company acquired Blakes Performance Fabrics Ltd., specialists in coated high performance textiles.

2000

Acquisition

In 2000, Millerain acquired Carrington Performance Fabrics, specialists in the manufacture of commercial canvases and work wear fabrics.

2005

Acquisition of J.T. Inglis

Acquisition of J.T. Inglis of Dundee

2012

Facebook Launch

British Millerain has been operating for more than a century, so please join us in celebrating our longevity with our new website and Facebook page.

Please keep in touch by following our updates, news features and new products!

We look forward to providing our online audience with textile inspiration and heritage highlights.

2013

Acquisition of Century Dyeing Ltd.

In 2013, British Millerain acquired Century Dyeing ltd., a specialist commission dye-house based in West Yorkshire.

Century boast a wide range of expertise and techniques in dyeing synthetics and cottons, including; Jig, jet, Beam and Cold-Pad Batch.

2014

In-House Digital Printing

In 2014, British Millerain invested over £500,000 in new dyeing machinary, factory rennovation and a state-of-the art digital printer. The printer can rapidly print intricate patterns and solid shades, which can then be finished with our signature wax or washable wax.

2015

Rochdale

New production facility opened in Rochdale

2016

Drapers Award Winner

Bristish Millerain proudly win the Drapers Award for Fashion Supplier of the Year.

Head office & sales

British Millerain Co. Ltd.

Unit 1, Park Mill, Buckley Road, Rochdale, OL12 9DJ

Tel : +44 (0)1706 716 379

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