Nicholls & Clarke Celebrates 150 Years in the UK Construction Industry
This year, the Nicholls & Clarke Group celebrates a mega milestone, 150 years of trading within the UK Construction Industry.
A Historic Journey Since 1875
2025 is an exciting year for the Nicholls & Clarke Group (N&C) as they proudly celebrate their 150th anniversary. Founded in 1875, they have grown from strength to strength within the building materials industry, embarking on a journey that took them from being a single site builders and glass merchant from Shoreditch High Street, London into a National Distributor, Manufacturer, Retailer, Exporter of a wide range of building materials, whilst continually growing as a Builders’ Merchant.
From Shoreditch to Nationwide Recognition
Nicholls & Clarke was formed in 1875 as a glass, lead, oil and colour merchant by Sam Nicholls. The company, based in Shoreditch for 120 years, have diversified in more ways than one, becoming the chosen providers of building supplies across many market sectors, including commercial, residential, RMI and retail, with their brands used in many significant and high-profile projects. Today, the business operates with 16 retail showrooms, 4 distribution centres, 5 manufacturing facilities, 60+ private commercial vehicles, 30+ National Executives and 400+ employees employed in the UK and Europe.
People at the Heart of the Business
Many of the original core values remain within Nicholls & Clarke, instilled by the forefathers of the business, Sam Nicholls and Henry Clarke. It is the people throughout history who are at the heart of Nicholls & Clarke, who have driven its success. From the skilled craftsmen and professionals of the early days to the talented chemists, the experts with incredible experience built over the years, the new members bursting with ideas and enthusiasm, the customer facing team that help inspire and provide solutions, the operatives that fuel the operation, the scientific discoveries in the labs over the 150 years that have enabled them to be recognised as inventors and innovators within our markets.
Staying True to Core Values
In a business where voices are heard, the board continue to hold true many of the values that have reigned over the decades, with an open-door policy to enable the passion of our team to continue to strengthen the business and to pave the way for the next 150 years.
It is this spirit of curiosity and improvement that has forever been a cornerstone of the business’ growth, driving their ability to meet the challenges of an ever-changing marketplace. Fostering long-term relationships with customers, suppliers, and industry partners, they have built a robust foundation that ensures continued success. Their ability to adapt and grow has enabled the business to thrive for a century and a half.
Chairman’s Reflection
According to David Forbes Chairman of Nicholls & Clarke Group:
“It has been the expertise, commitment, and passion of our people that has remained evident throughout history, they have been fundamental in shaping the company we are today. It has also been about adapting to market, going against the tide sometimes and staying relevant to our customers and industry.”
