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Family-run Lee Glass and Glazing celebrates 50 years
One of the original GGF Member companies is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2017. We look back on the Lee family’s proud history in the glazing industry.
In the same year the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) marks 40 years of representing glass and glazing companies throughout the UK, one of the Federation’s original Founder Members is celebrating its own impressive achievement of longevity.
Nottingham-based Lee Glass and Glazing Ltd began trading in 1967 and 50 years later this family-run company continues to serve domestic and commercial customers throughout Nottinghamshire.
A family history in glazing
Lee Glass and Glazing Ltd was officially created in 1967, however the company’s story begins much earlier with the birth of Harold Lee in 1907. Harold first began to develop his skill as a glass beveller in Sheffield while at Pilkington Glass, before moving with wife Gertrude and family to Nottingham where he joined Nottingham Glass Works.
It was here that son Terry started working as an apprentice at the age of 14, absorbing his father’s teaching and expertise while beginning to learn his own trade in the glazing industry.
At 30, Terry formed Sandiacre Glass together with partners Tony Patton and Peter Court. Four years later in 1967 the company disbanded, paving the way for Terry to launch Lee Glass and Glazing Ltd.
Lee Glass and Glazing Ltd
In the early days the company was based in the old stable on Edwin Street, Daybrook. Terry’s wife Betty provided extensive assistance as secretary while also supporting their three young children.
In 1975 the company moved to new premises on Marshall Street, Sherwood and during that same decade the second generation of Lee Glass came onboard – first Terry’s son Patrick, and then Patrick’s brother Danny and cousins Martin and John.
Terry retired in 1993 leaving the running of the business to Martin, John, Danny and Pat. He nevertheless maintained a regular presence at the factory, stepping in from time to time to carry out jobs requiring the highest level of skill and expertise.
Family owned and run for 50 years
In 2001 the purpose-built Bulwell factory was opened, containing a glass-toughening plant, state-of-the-art glass processing machinery and a paint spray shop. In 2014 the factory doubled in size when the premises next door was purchased, leading to further expansion and the offering of additional niche products such as painted glass splashbacks, worktops, fire rated glass and curved glass – to name a few.
Lee Glass and Glazing is now entering its 6th decade as a family-owned business, currently employing over 40 members of staff. The third generation of Lees are among those staff, and the Lee family are also heavily involved in fundraising and giving back to local communities through sponsorships and sporting events.
