In recent times, Islington has risen to become a thriving business hub in the capital. This borough in the north of Greater London is proving to be a popular place for new businesses due to its proximity to the city center but also being just outside, making it both quieter and cheaper. There is a thriving tech and startup scene here, which means that there is a strong business community. Islington also has a rich and fascinating business history that has helped to establish it as such a popular district in modern times. Interested? Keep reading to learn about the business history of Islington.
Farmland
It is hard to imagine it today when you stand in Islington as a lively district in the capital, but Islington was once a small hamlet surrounded by a lot of farmland. During Tudor times, Islington established itself as a key supplier of milk, butter, and cream to the rest of London. It was during this time that the two original thoroughfares covered – Upper Street and Lower Road (now called Essex Road). Islington was also one of the first boroughs to receive fresh water via a 40-mile canal that was built in the early 17th century – you can see a statue of the Tudor architect Sir Hugh Myddelton who designed the New River in Islington Green.
Printing & Publishing
Islington has a long history in the printing and publishing industry and is still regarded today as a center for publishing with a liberal leaning. There were many different newspapers, magazines, and books that were published in this area dating back as far as the 18th century. This included the iconic “Gentleman’s Gazette”, which was founded by John Nichols in 1731. This became one of the most popular publications of its time and played a major role in establishing Islington as one of the best places for publishing in all of the UK.
Breweries
Islington is also a destination that is well-known for its eclectic nightlife, cozy pubs, and great beer. This is all part of the district’s history, as it was home to a number of notable breweries, including Whitbread Brewery. Whitbread Brewery was founded in the 18th century and became one of the “Big Six” brewers that dominated in the late 20th century during the London porter boom. Whitbread created the first purpose-built mass-production brewery in Britain and played a major role in driving the local economy in Islington.
Tech & Startups
Fast forward to today, Islington has become a hub for tech and startups as well as independent shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants. Islington has gone through regeneration in recent times, and this has helped the business scene to flourish once again. Those looking to start a new business in the area should use companies like theworkplacecompany.co.uk to find suitable office spaces to rent. Companies like this will have access to all of the best rental spaces and could help you get the best rates.
Furniture
Moving ahead to the 19th century, Islington became known as a center for prodding high-quality furniture. There were a number of workshops that were set up in the area at this time, including Gillows of Lancaster. Gillows of Lancaster became a prominent furniture-making business known for its craftsmanship. Today, furniture items from this business are coveted by collectors, with early pieces on show in museums all around the world, including the V&A in London.
Islington is on the rise after regeneration in recent times with a thriving business and startup scene. Still, this district also has a rich business history, with many notable businesses in major industries playing a major role in the history of the capital.
