This is where Kevin Smith, the company's founder, made a pivotal decision: to install a small operations machine. This single act of ambition laid the foundation for a business that has now thrived for nearly three decades, built on a strong core of family values and expert craftsmanship. Kevin's initial step, born of grit and vision, created a legacy that would be carried forward by the next generation, establishing the company’s reputation for quality from its very first day.
An Enduring Leadership: The Heartbeat of the Business
As the company grew, Kevin was joined by his daughter, Claire Smith, who became the true heartbeat of TD Pressings. While the founder’s spark ignited the business, Claire's unwavering work ethic and hands-on approach have been the engine that kept it running. Navigating the “chaos” of young family life, she and her father worked tirelessly, never losing the personal touch that defines the company today. Claire’s reputation as a nononsense businesswoman has seen her master the engineering world and navigate every challenge thrown her way, ensuring the business prevails. She remains very much at the helm, a pillar of strength and experience.
A Dynamic Partnership: Tradition Meets Transformation
The next chapter for TD Pressings is a story of harmonious collaboration between tradition and transformation. This is where Jonathan Read, Claire’s son-in-law, enters the picture. Jonathan brings a fresh perspective and a powerful hunger for growth, perfectly complementing Claire’s deep-seated knowledge and passion. This isn’t about replacing Claire’s leadership; it’s about enhancing it.
Jonathan's mission is to modernise the business without losing its soul. He's actively acquiring new customers and streamlining operations, all with Claire’s vision as his guiding star. He understands that while he can drive new business and introduce more efficient systems, the company’s foundation lies in the culture and values that Claire and Kevin built. His respect for this legacy is evident in his commitment to empowering the engineering team that Claire has nurtured for years.
Under Jonathan’s management, TD Pressings is already on a positive trajectory. He uses a hands-on, "knocking doors" approach to build lasting relationships, emphasising that genuine, face-to-face engagement is key in a digital age. He's also focused on modernising internal processes, moving away from manual, paper-based systems to a more efficient, digital workflow. This strategic shift is crucial for saving time and money, and it reflects his understanding that small, strategic changes can have a massive impact on productivity and profitability.
Building a Legacy Together
Jonathan’s and Claire’s ambitions are matched by a deep respect for their team. They see the engineers as the foundation of the business and are committed to empowering them with the tools and training they need to grow. They're even exploring courses to upskill their staff, ensuring that as the company moves forward, it does so as a unified and highly capable team.
Despite external pressures and challenges, Jonathan, as the newest recruit in management, remains undeterred. He draws inspiration from other businesses that have grown from modest beginnings into industry leaders, and his goal is to build a legacy for the next generation. Jonathan’s confidence is unwavering, fuelled by his belief that TD Pressings has a unique and valuable offering. "We've got something that people need. Why can't we do it?" he challenges. This attitude, described as being without a "chip on his shoulder,” (an attitude he very much shares with Claire) fosters a collaborative and optimistic environment.
Together, Claire and Jonathan are a powerful duo—one ensuring the heart and integrity of the business remain intact, the other leading the charge for growth. This collaboration isn't just about business; it’s about a family’s shared commitment to building a legacy that will thrive for generations to come.
Look out for their new, fresh and snappy re-brand going forwards as TDP. Watch this space, as they say!
