About Shaws

The Shaws of Darwen Story began in 1897 in Whitebirk, Blackburn. The founder Aurthur Gerard Shaw having recognised the growing demand for Architectural ceramics, began manufacture utilising the rich clay deposits unearthered at his father’s coal mines at Belthorn and Waterside. Originally known as the Shaws Glazed Brick Company, production soon developed to encompass Terracotta and Faience, and so successful was this venture that in 1908 a new factory was built adjacent to the mines at Waterside.

The company continued to make progress until the outbreak of war in 1914. To keep work alive acid ware and ceramic conductors were made for the government. During this time Arthur Gerald invented and patented a system of burning clayware by gas and by 1919 had formed “ The Shaws Gas Kiln Company”, building and installing kilns throughout Great Britain, America and Europe.

The years between the wars saw a tremendous growth in demand, with Architects of the day realising the material’s excellence in both design versatility and durability. High Streets throughout the country were soon embellished with complete elevations of Shaws Faience.

By 1924 Fireclay Sanitaryware had been introduced and Shaws had become Darwen’s largest employer with up to 600 staff at the present 26 acre Waterside site.

1951 saw the unfortunate death of Arthur Gerald, but the company, unlike any others in the industry, continued to prosper by anticipating the changing architectural styles. Investment in the production of the Shaws Twin Tile an extruded, frost resistant tile, proved a success, with Shaws being awarded countless orders for building cladding work during the 1960’s and 70’s.

Terracotta, Faience and Fireclay Sinks continue to be made by our dedicated and skilled workforce. In 2000 Shaws of Darwen was acquired by Qualceram Shires PLC, who recognised the potential of the product range and Shaws experienced workforce. A major capital investment programme continues, ensuring the company benefits from its inherent skills, combined with the latest production technology, to ensure Shaws meets both the demands of the construction and sanitaryware industries for another 100 years.