Sheffield knife manufacturer to cut ties with 150 year-old city centre HQ

A knife manufacturer, which has been based in the centre of Sheffield since the 19th century, is set to move into a larger premises off Sheffield Parkway.

Taylor’s Eye Witness Ltd, the kitchen knife manufacturer and distributor, have just secured a property ‘swap’ with Sheffield City Council.

The two parties have agreed to exchange the historic Eye Witness Works on Milton Street for a 32,000 sq ft single storey unit on Parkway Close. As part of the swap, the manufacturer will gain new factory space and larger room for its distribution business.

Taylor’s Eye Witness will invest over £1m in the new building, which includes new machinery for the manufacturing unit, new warehousing equipment, offices and a trade showroom.

In addition, the Sheffield company can remain at Eye Witness Works for upto 24 months to allow time for a well-planned relocation.

After being built in stages between 1850 and 1900, Eye Witness Works is classed as a Grade 2 listed building. Taylor’s Eye Witness Ltd has operated from there for over 150 years but the facilities have become increasingly unsuitable for a modern business.

The property is close to Devonshire Green in Sheffield City Centre in an area that is becoming an increasingly popular place to live as well as work. While the company remains in the building, the council will prepare a development brief and market the property.

Alastair Fisher, joint managing director of Taylor’s Eye Witness Ltd, said: “For us this is a great opportunity to continue the growth of our business and to give even better service to our worldwide customer base. It also it shows our continuing commitment to manufacturing in Sheffield.”

Councillor Leigh Bramall, Sheffield City Council’s Cabinet Member for business, skills and development added: “I am really pleased that the Council has been able to help this longstanding Sheffield business relocate to a property that is more suitable for their needs and will allow them to develop their business further.

“At the same time, by acquiring this fascinating historic building, the Council will be able to bring forward exciting regeneration proposals that build on the City’s historic cutlery industry.”