Whiteley wins Excellence in Craftsmanship Award

Whiteley, a heritage scissor manufacturer based in Sheffield, has won the Excellence in Craftsmanship Award at the 2026 Artisan Founder Awards. The company received the highest combined score from professional judges and a public vote.

Established in 1760, Whiteley is recognized as the oldest scissor smith in the Western world. The manufacturer specializes in handcrafted blades and shears using traditional techniques, with products used by prominent fashion designers such as Paul Smith and Alexander McQueen.

Director Gautam Bathija noted that the award coincides with the company’s 266th anniversary and highlighted the importance of preserving the endangered craft by passing traditional skills to future generations.