Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Sample Manufacturing
Established in 1905, Kelly & Barratt has evolved from a commercial printing business into a specialist manufacturer of high-quality samples for carpets, vinyls, and textiles. Our expertise in bespoke trade finishing for the print and packaging industry is built on over a century of experience and a commitment to precision. We utilise state-of-the-art equipment while maintaining traditional values of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Our team is trained to the highest industry standards, ensuring rigorous quality control at every production stage. We prioritise meeting deadlines without compromising on quality, offering a responsive service tailored to client needs.From simple laminating to complex casemaking, our solutions enhance product presentation for sales teams. Headquartered in Leeds, we serve clients across the UK with a focus on innovation and reliability. Our legacy of adaptability, from wartime manufacturing to modern trade finishing, underscores our deep industry knowledge. We remain family-owned, with Paul Ellis leading the business since 1999, continuing a tradition of excellence.
Services
Sample Manufacturing
Trade Finishing
Carpet Samples
Vinyl Samples
Textile Samples
Details
- Year established: 1905
Highlights and features
- We have over 115 years of experience in sample manufacturing.
- Our state-of-the-art equipment ensures precision and quality.
- We guarantee timely delivery of all bespoke finishing projects.
- Our team adheres to the highest industry training standards.
- We provide tailored solutions for carpet, vinyl, and textile samples.
Services
Sample Manufacturing
We create high-quality samples for carpets, vinyls, and textiles, enabling businesses to showcase products effectively. Our process transforms raw materials into precision-crafted samples that highlight texture, colour, and quality. Clients benefit from enhanced product presentation for sales and marketing purposes.
Trade Finishing
Our bespoke trade finishing services include laminating, casemaking, and strutted showcards for the print and packaging industry. We combine advanced technology with traditional craftsmanship to deliver durable, professional results. This service helps clients present products in the best possible light.
Carpet Samples
We produce custom carpet samples that allow retailers to display textures and designs effectively. Each sample undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure accuracy and durability. This service supports flooring businesses in providing tactile, visual product representations to customers.
Vinyl Samples
Our vinyl sample manufacturing service creates precise, durable swatches for product displays. These samples help businesses demonstrate material quality and design options to clients. We ensure consistency and attention to detail in every batch produced.
Textile Samples
We manufacture textile samples that showcase fabric textures and patterns for sales presentations. Our process maintains material integrity while ensuring samples are practical for handling and comparison. This service supports textile businesses in effective product marketing.
People
Paul Ellis
Director
Paul Ellis has led Kelly & Barratt since joining in 1999, continuing the company's legacy of precision manufacturing. With over two decades of industry experience, he oversees operations and client relations, ensuring adherence to quality standards and timely project delivery.
John Ellis
Former Managing Director
John Ellis served as managing director from 1970 until retiring in 2008. He guided the company through significant growth periods, maintaining its reputation for excellence in trade finishing. His leadership shaped modern operations before passing responsibilities to the next generation.
James Cardno
Former Owner
James Cardno acquired Kelly & Barratt in 1967, bringing expertise from his role as chief accountant at John Waddintons. His strategic vision during the 1960s-70s helped transition the business towards sample manufacturing, laying foundations for future specialisation.
Colin Harris
Former Managing Director
Colin Harris became managing director after joining from John Waddintons in 1967. He played a pivotal role in developing trade finishing capabilities before retiring in 2008. His contributions established quality control processes still used today.
Questions
What materials do you create samples for?
We specialise in carpet, vinyl, and textile samples for product displays and sales presentations.
How long has your company been in business?
Kelly & Barratt has been manufacturing samples since 1905, with over a century of industry experience.
What trade finishing services do you offer?
Our services include laminating, casemaking, hand mounting, and strutted showcards for print and packaging clients.
Do you serve areas outside Leeds?
While based in Leeds, we provide samples and finishing services to clients across West Yorkshire and surrounding regions.
