Best of British: The Stories Behind Britain's Iconic Brands

Featuring hundreds of photographs, this lavishly illustrated guide to some of the most distinguished British brands takes a fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at their enduring success. Classic style and British manufacturing are both experiencing a boom in demand driven by a desire among consumers for authentic, quality products. Britain is uniquely placed to benefit from this resurgence, given the number of heritage companies still producing at the top of their game. From the world-famous Barbour in South Shields in the north of England to John Lobb in London, many of these fine businesses remain in family ownership, protective of their traditions and justifiably proud of their products. Many are the bearers of warrants from the British Royal family and all are over 100 years old. Horst Friedrichs explores the historic places where these British brands have become some of the strongest in the world: Johnston's of Elgin in the north of Scotland, Corgi socks in southern Wales and John Smedley in Derbyshire. By highlighting the stories of these legendary brands both new and old, grand and humble Friedrichs and Crompton show how relevant these companies and their traditional production techniques still are. Best of British is a must-read for anyone that appreciates well-crafted products and timeless style.

Three cheers for the bulldog British brand - Best of British brings back the glory days of classic British manufacture. --Country & Town House, 1st September 2015

Thanks to the resurgence of traditional manufacturing on UK turf, it s easier than ever to find products that are made in Britain. New book Best of British: The Stories Behind Britain s Iconic Brands (Prestel, £35) is a timely survey of companies that have always made their wares on home soil. Most have royal warrants; many are now global-reaching (such as Barbour, founded in Newcastle s South Shields). If you re thrilled by the idea of a visit to James Smith & Sons, Oxford Street s unparalleled purveyor of umbrellas since 1830, or a trip to buy cashmere socks from Johnston s of Elgin in Scotland, this compendium is a must-read. --Elle Decoration

Horst Friedrichs photographs have appeared in Stern, the London Independent and The New York Times. His most recent books include I m One: 20th Century Mods; Or Glory: 21st-Century Rockers; Cycle Style; Drive Style; and Denim Style (all by Prestel). Simon Crompton is a renowned menswear journalist whose website, Permanent Style, is one of the most popular style blogs in Europe.