Collins Bespoke, an Ashford-based company specializing in handcrafted, bespoke kitchens, was recently honored with the prestigious Manufacturing Guild Mark by The Furniture Makers’ Company. This accolade is nationally recognized as a marker of quality for British furniture and furnishing manufacturers. From their base in Bethersden near Ashford, Collins Bespoke’s team of 15 highly skilled designers, joiners, and fitters meticulously tailors high-end kitchens and interiors for both domestic and commercial clients across Southeast England.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
The Visionary Founder
Founded by Nick Collins, whose 30-year career began as an apprentice at Stevenson Brothers, Collins Bespoke has been a paragon of craftsmanship and quality since its inception in 2001. Nick’s journey from apprentice to founder demonstrates his enduring passion for the craft, which has driven the company’s growth and success. Today, Collins Bespoke crafts around 60 kitchens annually from its dedicated showroom and production workshop, a testament to the company’s dedication to superior craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.
The company has experienced remarkable growth, generating an impressive turnover of £1.2 million. Notably, 70% of this revenue stems from high-end kitchens priced between £8,000 and £50,000, reflecting the company’s focus on delivering luxury and quality. Collins Bespoke’s flourishing apprenticeship program has been a cornerstone of its success, ensuring a steady influx of skilled young talent. Currently, four of the company’s employees began their careers as apprentices, showcasing the organization’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of craftsmen.
Commitment to Excellence
The Manufacturing Guild Mark is revered within the British furniture industry, necessitating exceptionally high standards across numerous assessment areas, including design, product development, manufacture, human resources, financial stability, sustainability, and sales and marketing. Daniel Mesecke, the Manufacturing Guild Mark chairman, lauded Collins Bespoke for their robust environmental credentials, efficient material use, and unwavering commitment to sustainable practices. Waste reduction is a key focus for the company, with wood waste repurposed to fuel heating and hot water systems, demonstrating their innovative approach to sustainability.
The company’s suppliers are mandated to be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, ensuring that the timber used in their products is sustainably sourced. This commitment to environmental responsibility is further underscored by Collins Bespoke’s ongoing efforts to refine their designs and processes while consistently enhancing customer service. The Manufacturing Guild Mark, awarded only to companies that manufacture the majority of their products within the UK, involves an independent audit conducted every three years by the Furniture Industry Research Association to maintain these lofty standards.
Pinnacle of Recognition
Industry Validation
Receiving the Manufacturing Guild Mark is not just a testament to Collins Bespoke’s high-quality craftsmanship but also to their innovative business practices and sustainable development. The accolade places Collins Bespoke among the top tier of British furniture and furnishing manufacturers, validating years of hard work and dedication to the industry. This recognition is a significant milestone in the company’s business journey, reflecting their status as leaders in manufacturing excellence.
The recognition by the Manufacturing Guild Mark underlines Collins Bespoke’s sustained excellence in several key areas. It emphasizes the company’s dedication to maintaining high standards in all aspects of their operations. This thorough evaluation covers various facets, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of the industry. By adhering to these high standards, Collins Bespoke continues to set an example for others in the field, showcasing what can be achieved through dedication and a commitment to quality.
Sustained Excellence
Collins Bespoke, a company based in Ashford, recently received the esteemed Manufacturing Guild Mark from The Furniture Makers’ Company. This award is a nationally recognized symbol of quality for British furniture and furnishing producers. Operating out of Bethersden near Ashford, Collins Bespoke’s skilled workforce of 15 designers, joiners, and fitters specializes in crafting custom-made, high-end kitchens and interiors for both residential and commercial clients throughout Southeast England.
Founded on the principles of exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, Collins Bespoke has earned a stellar reputation over the years. The team takes pride in every project, working closely with clients to deliver bespoke solutions that perfectly match their needs and preferences. The award not only acknowledges the company’s dedication to quality and excellence but also reinforces its status as a leader in the high-end kitchen manufacturing sector.
Their bespoke kitchens stand out for their innovative designs, superior materials, and impeccable finish, ensuring that each project is as unique as the client who commissions it.
