Belstaff: Celebrating 100 years by coming home to Stoke on Trent

Belstaff are celebrating 100 years of their iconic brand’s heritage right here in my home city.

Not many will know that Belstaff was founded in the heart of Longton, Stoke-on-Trent back in 1924.

Founded by Eli Belovitch and his son in law Harry Grosberg and now under the ownership of British tycoon Jim Ratcliffe. Belstaff is rekindling a connection to its origins by inviting enthusiasts and locals alike to join in the celebration as they host a weekend-long archive exhibition and immersive brand experience at the picturesque Gladstone Pottery Museum in Longton on May 25th and 26th 2024. (Get tickets)

This event is curated in collaboration with some of Britain’s foremost collectors, and offers a rare opportunity to admire some of our most prized and sought-after designs up close.

Famous for producing all-weather, durable, high-quality gear tailored for outdoor pursuits, motorcycle riding and even automobile racing. Among the highlights of the event are Belstaff pieces worn by renowned figures such as mountaineer Sir Chris Bonington, motorcycle legend Sammy Miller MBE, and the incomparable actor Steve McQueen.

In the spirit of giving back to the community, all proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to support the Friends of The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery. This charitable organisation plays a vital role in promoting, supporting, and preserving Gladstone, an iconic symbol of British industrial heritage.

The Gladstone Pottery Museum, will host the Belstaff event – *those that follow me will know that Gladstone is both the inspiration for my KILN MOTO logo but has also served as the backdrop for many of my photos including this one of my R9T.*

A personal connection

There is a real personal connection with Belstaff as my grandfather, Harry, worked for the company when they were based in the city. Like myself, he was a keen motorcyclist, having a motorcycle and sidecar as his daily driver (he never took his car test).

It was heartwarming that whilst writing this blog I came across the photograph of an old bike parked outside the Belstaff building in Longton. Now whilst it’s very unlikely, how nice would it be if this was a my grandfather’s old bike, I will have to get my parents to dig out some old photos to see if I can match the bike.

Caroline Street Longton in June 1965 – the Belstaff factory is on the left
at the bottom of the street can be seen the Railway Bridge and Longton Town Hall. (Photo credit : Lovatt Collection)

So as Belstaff looks back on a century of heritage and looks ahead to a future of continued innovation, its homecoming to Longton highlights the fact that they has not forgotten their roots. Belstaff’s return to the city serves as a reminder of the region’s diverse history of creativity. This centennial celebration is a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that defines both Belstaff and the vibrant community of Stoke-on-Trent.

Until next time…work hard, ride safe.

Craig – KILN MOTO