Home & Garden

Founded by Cambridge University jet engineer and coffee enthusiast William Playford, 9Barista is a unique espresso machine that marries advanced engineering with a passion for perfect coffee. Its patented twin boiler system, devoid of electronics and featuring only one moving part, ensures exceptional reliability and simplicity. Constructed from premium materials and built to last a lifetime, the 9Barista sets itself apart from conventional espresso machines. The 9Barista story is rooted in Will's passion for jet engines and speciality coffee. While pursuing a PhD in jet engine thermodynamics at Cambridge's Whittle Laboratory, he spent nights experimenting with his La Pavoni lever espresso machine in his garden shed. These experiments led to a groundbreaking innovation: a system using two saturated steam boilers at different pressures and temperatures to generate 9 bars of pressure and regulate brew temperature. Each 9Barista machine is handcrafted in Cambridge, UK, by a team of skilled, coffee-loving engineers and shipped worldwide to deliver unparalleled espresso experiences.

AeroPress, founded in 2004 by Alan Adler, is based in Palo Alto, California, USA. The company is renowned for its innovative coffee brewing devices, particularly the AeroPress coffee maker, which has gained a global following for its ability to produce smooth, rich coffee. The unique design allows for a quick and easy brewing process, which combines the best features of French press, pour-over, and traditional drip methods. AeroPress manufactures its products in the USA, ensuring high-quality standards. The company's commitment to simplicity and efficiency in coffee making has made it a favourite among coffee enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Dartington Crystal, originally Dartington Glass, was established in 1967 as part of the Dartington Hall Trust's initiatives to support rural regeneration in North Devon. Known for its simple yet functional glassware, Dartington became the UK’s leading glass manufacturer by incorporating Scandinavian techniques. Founded by Dorothy and Leonard Elmhurst, the enterprise aimed for commercial success, bringing 16 Scandinavian glass-blowers to train local artisans. Key figures include Frank Thrower, who designed nearly all products from 1967 until 1987, and Hilary Green, the current head designer. The Sharon collection, among other designs, gained significant acclaim, including exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Today, Dartington Crystal is an award-winning visitor attraction, offering factory tours and showcasing its history. The Torrington factory produces about 350,000 pieces annually, each handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. Only the finest quality pieces receive the Dartington stamp of approval.

Dualit, established in the 1940s by Max Gort-Barten, is a renowned British company based in Crawley, England. Known for its iconic toasters, the company offers a range of high-quality kitchen appliances, including kettles, coffee machines, food preparation tools, and baby products. Dualit products are celebrated for their durability, innovative design, and performance. The brand maintains a commitment to quality, with many products still hand-assembled in the UK.

Ernest Wright, founded in 1902, is based in Sheffield, England, and specializes in crafting handmade scissors and shears. Known for their meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, each pair of scissors is crafted to order, ensuring high quality. Their range includes dressmaking shears, kitchen scissors, embroidery scissors, and industrial shears. The company emphasises traditional techniques and has received recognition for preserving endangered crafts. Orders typically have a lead time, reflecting their commitment to quality and custom craftsmanship.

Fiskars, founded in 1649 in Finland, began as an ironworks by the Fiskars River. Today, it is best known for its iconic orange-handled scissors and high-quality tools for gardening, cooking, and crafting. The company’s history spans over 375 years, showcasing continuous innovation, from its early steam engines to modern design-led consumer products. Fiskars manufactures in Finland, with notable factories in Sorsakoski. It remains a respected global brand, valued for its commitment to functional, sustainable design. Fiskars Group also owns brands like Iittala and Wedgwood.

GreenPan, founded in 2007, is a pioneering brand in the cookware industry, known for introducing the world’s first non-stick cookware made without harmful chemicals. The brand was created by two Belgian school friends who were inspired to find a safer alternative to traditional non-stick coatings after discovering the potential dangers of chemicals like PTFE and PFOA. GreenPan's cookware features a patented ceramic coating called Thermolon, which is free from toxic substances and is designed to withstand high temperatures without releasing harmful fumes. Based in Belgium, GreenPan products are manufactured with sustainability in mind, using upcycled stainless steel and aluminium, as well as energy-efficient production processes. The brand’s commitment to health and the environment has made it a favourite among health-conscious consumers and professional chefs alike. GreenPan’s product range includes various types of pots, pans, and kitchen accessories, all designed to offer superior cooking performance while promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Harfield Tableware, established in 1961 and based in Stockport, Cheshire, is the UK's leading manufacturer of reusable polycarbonate tableware. The family-owned company offers a wide range of products including tumblers, plates, bowls, trays, cups, beakers, cutlery, serving tongs, and jugs, available in over twenty colours. Harfield focuses on sustainability, recently achieving ISO 14001 certification, reflecting their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Founded in 1941, Inoxriv is an Italian company known for its innovative and high-quality stainless steel cookware and kitchen tools. Based in Brescia, Italy with a production plant in Agnosine, Italy, Inoxriv manufactures a wide range of products, including pressure cookers, pots, pans, cutlery, and tableware. Their products are designed for both home and professional use, ensuring durability and excellent performance. Committed to eco-friendliness and social responsibility, Inoxriv maintains a strong focus on environmental protection and cultural support.

Let's Cook Cookware, a family-run business based in the North West of England, offers high-quality British-made bakeware. Founded with a passion for baking, they provide a wide range of non-stick bakeware, including baking trays, cake tins, and pie dishes that emphasises affordability and customer satisfaction.