Supporting British Industry & Craftsmanship
Five generations of MacCarthys have been handcrafting custom-made presentation boxes and packaging since 1880.
Some of the machinery is almost as old as the business and many of the techniques have not changed in the 146 years since Willliam MacCarthy started the business from his kitchen tabkle in Camberwell.
The current premises are a historic dock building situated on a Woolwich industrial estate (next door to Empress Litho) where they create bespoke packaging including presentation boxes and slipcases. Most of the preparation and finishing is done manually using hand-operated machines. The oldest piece of machinery was patented in 1894 and made in 1908.
"Another fantastic family firm, being run by James an enthusiastic fifth generation family member. I enjoyed hearing James' stories of visiting his grandparents and the factory as a child. So many of the iconic machines in use have not changed in generations, still doing the perfect job of cutting and folding today. There was a lovely camaraderie amongst the mostly female staff, many of them having worked here for decades." Carmel King photographed W MacCarthy & Sons in August 2021 for Made in London.
