'Hill & Smith: A 200 Year History' by John Olsen

This short history traces its 200-year journey, starting in 1824 as a family-owned ironworks in the heart of the Black Country, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. It continues through the highs and lows of the 20th century with two World Wars, a listing on the London Stock Exchange, the stark impact of the UK steel industry’s decline, and latterly diversification through a series of acquisitions. Finally, it describes the business’s 21st-century transformation into a major international group, still based in the West Midlands but employing almost 4,500 people worldwide and valued at close to £1.5bn.

The book looks at the events that have shaped Hill & Smith’s story, the enduring qualities and values that have underpinned its success, and the key people that have made it happen.

Available at: www.brewinbooks.com