This trade catalogue dates to c.1958 because the company used the name Laughton & Sons Ltd. on the back cover.
Meanwhile the listing shown below in the April 26 1958 edition of The Chemist And Druggist describes the makers as JARRETT RAINSFORD & LAUGHTON LTD., WARSTOCK ROAD, BIRMINGHAM 14.
In 1860 Stephen Jarrett and Charles Rainsford joined in partnership. Jarrett was a pin manufacturer and jeweller. Rainsford was a commercial traveller. The partners took on premises at 7 Broad Street, Islington, Birmingham. The success of the venture enabled Jarrett & Rainsford to move new premises at 48 Broad Street in 1870. In 1898 the firm took on an office boy who exhibited much promise. This young man was named George A. Laughton. The partners were so impressed with him that by 1904 he was rewarded with the position of assistant manager.
The company which was to go on to make the wonderful Stratton brand powder compacts which are so highly collectible today was formed in 1860. This firm was one of the great British companies which manufactured world class products. These ranged from elegant accessories to marine radios. The business employed a highly skilled and dedicated workforce from 1860 until 1997 when production ceased. We have included an illustrated timeline.
