Thorn Electrical Industries has a rich history that spans over a century. The company was founded in 1893 by Frank Thorn, who started by manufacturing electrical components.
Thorn Electrical Industries has undergone significant developments over the years. It began producing electrical equipment, including switchgear and transformers.
The company's early success can be attributed to its innovative approach to electrical engineering. Thorn Electrical Industries introduced the first high-voltage switchgear in the early 1900s.
Thorn Electrical Industries continued to expand its product line in the mid-20th century. It started producing circuit breakers and other electrical protection devices.
Broaden your view: Electrical Emergency
Key Events
Sir Jules Thorn founded Electric Lamp Service Company in 1928, taking over the undertakings of his previous venture.
He was joined by Austrian engineer Alfred Deutsch, who helped organize the company's production process.
Thorn's first shop, renting radios, opened in Twickenham in 1931.
In 1932, Thorn acquired a controlling interest in Chorlton Metal Co. Limited, a dealer of electric lamps and radio goods based in Manchester.
In 1933, Thorn formed Lotus Radio (1933) Limited with L. M. Glancy, acquiring certain assets of the original Lotus Company to manufacture radio receivers.
Thorn merged with the EMI Group in 1979 to form Thorn EMI, a significant milestone in the company's history.
The electronics and rentals divisions were divested as Thorn plc in 1996.
Additional reading: Jordan Radio and Television Corporation
History
Sir Jules Thorn had a fascinating career, starting as a travelling salesman for Olso, an Austrian manufacturer of gas mantles, before setting up his own company, Electric Lamp Service Company, in 1928.
In 1931, Thorn opened his first shop, renting radios in Twickenham, marking the beginning of his expansion into the radio industry.
Alfred Deutsch, an Austrian engineer, joined Thorn's company in 1928 to help organize the production process, bringing valuable expertise to the table.
Thorn personally acquired a controlling interest in Chorlton Metal Co. Limited, dealers of electric lamps and radio goods, in August 1932, further solidifying his position in the market.
A different take: Austrian Krone
Jules Thorn formed Lotus Radio (1933) Limited with Mr L. M. Glancy in October 1933, acquiring certain assets of the original Lotus Company and manufacturing radio receivers.
The company changed its name to Thorn Electrical Industries Limited on 26 November 1936 and became a public limited company on 28 November 1936, marking a significant milestone in its history.
By 1948, the company had 2,400 employees, with factories in Enfield, Edmonton, Hirwaun, Tottenham, and Merthyr Tydfil, manufacturing a wide range of products including Atlas lamps and Ferguson radio and television receivers.
The company continued to expand, acquiring Ferguson in 1946 and forming a partnership with Sylvania Electric Products to develop and manufacture fluorescent lamps in 1947.
Future Rentals, a subsidiary of the Nomura Group, acquired Thorn in 1998, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the company's history.
A different take: Roger W. Ferguson Jr.
Merger with EMI
Thorn merged with the EMI Group in October 1979, to form Thorn EMI.
In 1996, Thorn EMI shareholders voted to de-merge Thorn, and the electronics and rentals divisions were divested as Thorn plc.
On 16 August 1996, this de-merging decision was made official, marking a significant change for the company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Thorn Emi?
Thorn EMI was a major British company that existed from 1979 to 1996 before demerging back into separate companies. It was a significant player in consumer electronics, music, defence, and retail during its time.
Who took over Thorn Emi?
Thorn EMI was acquired by the Japanese Nomura Group in 1998, marking a significant change in the company's ownership. This takeover had a lasting impact on the company's operations and future direction.
Featured Images: pexels.com
