MIDLANDSview
Shelforce is proud to sponsor Clearview ’ s MidlandsView
Midlands Manufacturer Takes a ‘ Different ’ View
Last year , Shelforce took to the cover of Clearview ’ s first ever MidlandsView and this year , we return to Birmingham for a look back at the company ’ s history . But , there ’ s no such thing as ‘ same again ’ when it comes to this business , as at Shelforce , they like to do things differently .
Shelforce is well known in the industry as a company that combines innovation and inclusivity . Thousands of Shelforce products have been specified and installed across Birmingham buildings across the decades , as one of the city council ’ s preferred suppliers . With a heritage spanning more than 185 years , there ’ s decades of history in every door …
Born in Birmingham
Shelforce ’ s story began in 1839 . The Industrial Revolution was in full swing . Cities like Birmingham , Coventry , and Wolverhampton became hubs for manufacturing , especially in industries such as metalworking , textiles , and engineering . But , employment for people with disabilities was virtually unheard of and those deemed ‘ disadvantaged ’ had limited options .
Shelforce was founded as part of the Royal School for the Blind . Its mission was simple : to provide paid work and training to visually impaired individuals . The company initially focused on producing everyday items such as brushes , baskets , and mats — goods that were in demand but required little to no formal training . For these early workers , Shelforce was more than just a job — it was an opportunity to gain valuable skills , financial independence , and a sense of purpose .
Cut to 100 years later . Shelforce has spent the last century building a product portfolio , adding bed manufacturing , engraving , and woodworking to its portfolio . The company also began producing
gates and fences for Birmingham City Council . As the manufacturing range expanded , so too did the employee diversity , still long before the concept of workplace diversity was widely recognised .
In 1984 , HRH Princess Anne , The Princess Royal , attended the official opening of Shelforce ’ s new facilities . This royal visit wouldn ’ t be Shelforce ’ s last brush with the monarchy .
In 1992 , the company began manufacturing PVCu windows and doors , and began to evolve into the brand that we know today . But , around 20 years later Shelforce was in trouble . When Howard Trotter joined as Business Manager , there was little choice than to drastically
54 MARCH 2025 CLEARVIEW-UK . COM