History of Francis W.Birkett - Francis W.Birkett

A proud history of strategic consolidation and innovation

Our story begins in 1800, when William Westley opened Queens Cross Foundry in the West Midlands. Francis W Birkett & Sons and Walter Frank & Sons were established later in the 19th century, with foundry activities being central to both our heritage and our future.

We have always been known for supporting safety critical industries. Such as Walter Frank pioneering the UK’s standardisation of fire hose fittings, and Westleys supporting the British steel industry. Or developing Defence Standard alloys 747 and 824 for the Royal Navy, and Spunalloys gaining approvals from Rolls-Royce and Augusta Westland.

In more recent times, we’ve embedded a corporate structure to lead us into the 21st century. Further acquisitions and investments have followed, with highlights including the FM Approved PRV9i launch in 2011, as well as the creation of dedicated sand casting and centrifugal casting centres of excellence.

Discover more about our proud heritage in the timeline below:

  • 1800
  • 1862
  • 1881
  • 1923
  • 1962
  • 1978
  • 1980
  • 1986
  • 1990
  • 1991
  • 1991
  • 1991
  • 1993
  • 1995
  • 1996
  • 1996
  • 1997
  • 1997
  • 1998
  • 2001
  • 2002
  • 2004
  • 2004

Our History

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