1865

Trutex was established as 'Clitheroe Shirtings' in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire.

1900

Around 1900, the company started to produce finished garments, which coincided with the introduction of uniform by more schools, and therefore a growing market for school uniform.

1920

The company was purchased by W.H Charnley in the 1920s, and the location, described as idyllic, in Grindleton was to be the head office for the next 70 years. 

1950

At this time, the company was known to have a 'special atmosphere' as described by an employee at the time, Ann Musson. Ann recalls a firm belief that they were the best at what they did.

1956

Employees have always taken part in extra-curricular activities together. Pictured here in the 1950s, the company netball team were undefeated champions.

1958

Manufacturing sites across the North increased to 11, plus two showrooms in London for exclusive buyers such as Selfridges and John Lewis.

1962

The company name was officially changed to Trutex as the business continuted to grow, along with its very respectable reputation.

1970

Trutex began advertising on TV, and a 'Trutex Lovelies' competition was launched, with the winning prize being a trip to Sweden!

1980

Sales continued to grow through the 1980s, and Trutex was purchased by Coats Viyella which was a considerably sized business at the time.

1986

The head office was moved to Jubilee Mill in Clitheroe, and has remained there ever since. A new range 'Wild Bunch by Trutex', a fun children's wear collection, was launched.

1991

Trutex began to work with Jeff Banks, and a range of schoolwear was created deemed as fashionable and fun to wear. This was called the 'Trutex College Collection by Jeff Banks'.

1992

The battle of the brands was fought, and won, on two fronts in the 1991 Trutex Schoolwear advertising campaign. A campaign built on unique Trutex identity that strikingly brought home the benefits of style, choice and fit in Trutex Schoolwear. 

1997

Trutex Direct was launched, and Trutex started selling directly to schools & parents.

2010

AKOA sportswear range was launched, providing high quality PE kit and sportswear to pupils. 

2012

Trutex became the UK's first carbon neutral schoolwear company, highlighting the company's commitment to sustainability.

2015

Trutex celebrated 150 years of heritage and supplying high quality garments, which still runs through the heart of the business today. Continuing to strive for excellence and use of technical expertise to create uniforms and sportswear.

2018

Trutex went through a re-brand to modernise their look, most importantly focusing on the quality and maintaining their heritage. 

2020

Trutex launched their 'Nurture the Future' campaign. A mission to reduce their impact on the planet and improve the lives of people who manufacture Trutex Schoolwear around the world.

Matthew Easter became Chair of the Schoolwear Association.

2022

MRW Award Winners! Our Re:Form recycling programme was awarded Best Circularity Reuse in the National Recycling Awards 2022.

2025

Present Day - Trutex continues to grow as a company under the guidance of the CEO Matthew Easter, while celebrating 160 years heritage!