Worcester Vista - a view of Worcester, articles and photos about the City of Worcester

Many World Famous Engineering Firms Were Based in Worcester

Many famous firms were based in Worcester, including Archdales, HW Wards, Meco, Metal Box, Heenan and Froude, Alley and Maclennan, Metal Castings, and Hardy and Padmore iron foundries. Prior to the seventies, these companies employed thousands of local people.

Archdales world famous for producing machine tools, mainly drilling and milling machines.

HW Ward produced capstan and turret lathes, these fine machines were exported to every manufacturing country in the world.

Meco manufactured mining equipment, Conveyors, and Mechanical Loaders, for handling coal underground.

Heenan and Froude famed for making the Blackpool Tower, also produced Engine Test machines, and refuse disposal plants.

Alley and Maclenan made valves of all sizes and description for the oil and gas industry.

Metal Castings produced components, mainly for the motor industry.

Metal box produced thousands of tin cans.

Hardy and Padmore made high-grade cast iron castings, mainly for engineering,
Although their products could be seen all over Worcester, lighting pillars on Worcester Bridge were made by this firm.

Sadly most of these companies have ceased to exist in Worcester, although Froude Consine are now based in Blackpole Road. Metal Castings are still in Droitwitch Road.