One of Harrogate’s longest-established independent retailers is celebrating a major milestone this summer, as Smiths of Harrogate marks 120 years in business.
Founded in 1906 by Frederick Smith, the family-run business has grown from a modest second-hand furniture shop into one of the town’s most recognised retailers, serving generations of customers across Harrogate and beyond.
Now in its fifth generation of family ownership, Smiths continues to operate from its famous Dragon Road showroom, known locally as “The Rink”.
The former roller skating rink has become part of the business’s identity, with Smiths building a strong reputation over the decades for quality, customer service and furniture expertise.
Today, the 30,000 square foot showroom offers a wide selection of furniture, beds, mattresses and home interiors from leading manufacturers, with many visitors surprised by the scale of the independent store.
The business has continued to evolve over the years while maintaining its traditional values, combining a modern retail experience with personal service and expert advice.
To celebrate the milestone, Smiths of Harrogate will host a special anniversary weekend from Friday 3rd to Monday 6th July, with a range of events and activities planned.
The celebrations will include a live broadcast with Pete Egerton from Your Harrogate Radio from 10am until 1pm on Friday, manufacturer demonstrations and expert talks across Friday and Saturday, special 120th birthday promotions, additional discounts on new orders placed over the weekend, complimentary birthday cake, tea and coffee, plus anniversary competitions.
Oliver Smith, great-great-grandson of founder Frederick Smith, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to be celebrating 120 years as a family business in Harrogate. It’s a real milestone for us, and we’re very grateful to our customers, colleagues and the local community for their continued support over the years.
“We wanted to mark the occasion by inviting people into the store to celebrate with us and to say thank you.”
Smiths has also maintained long-standing relationships with several respected brands and is one of the longest-established retailers of Ercol in the country.
The store’s bed department has become a destination in its own right, featuring more than 60 beds on display, while the business continues to provide its own delivery service to customers across Harrogate, Yorkshire and further afield.
Harrogate BID would like to congratulate the Smith family and the entire Smiths of Harrogate team on reaching this fantastic milestone and continuing to play an important role in the town’s independent retail offering.
The anniversary celebrations will take place from Friday 3rd to Monday 6th July at Smiths of Harrogate, “The Rink”, Dragon Road.