Newton Commercial
Classic success on the Suffolk coast
Newton Commercial has been providing trim and trimming services for classic cars for 41 years. From humble beginnings, when founders Richard and Vera Newton made trim on their kitchen table, they now employ almost 60 people in three purpose-built factories in Leiston, Suffolk. With over 25,000 sq. ft of manufacturing space, Newton handcrafts trim in original styles, materials and designs for classic Minis, MGS, Triumphs, Morris Minors, Porsches, Mazdas, Fords and Volkswagens.
Richard and Vera established the business in
1979 following increasing demand from classic car enthusiasts for original interior trim. They have now stepped back from frontline manufacture and their son Jonny is at the helm as managing director. He says: ‘They’ve been really good about letting me take the company on. They were initially hands-on, but let me work in my own way once I was bedded in.’
‘We celebrated 40 years in business last year. It was a brilliant achievement and we had great fun with various events through the year. We owe a lot to Richard and Vera for their passion, knowledge and vision.’
Last year nearly 100 current and former staff and partners met for a Gala Dinner at Thorpeness Country
Club and the HQ hosted an open day in summer for more than 300 customers and their classic cars at the factory. The family ethos clearly extends from the family to the staff and customers.
The company now has a worldwide reach, with an export market that accounts for more than 40 per cent of the business. Today they manufacture British and European classic trim products for classic cars worldwide and design and make moulded components such as carpets for a whole variety of classics. They were designing and building the floorpan carpet mould for late Minis when visited to manufacture top quality moulded carpets for the cars.
Jonny says that Newton is now one of the biggest employers in the Suffolk coastal region: ‘I’m really proud of our staff who have made us a great place to work. We hand-make great products using artisan skills and export worldwide. Its British manufacturing at its best, and a great example of the value of the classic car industry to UK plc.