A British tool manufacturer, renowned for producing high-quality soft-faced hammers for over a century, is proving that traditional craftsmanship still plays a vital role in the global industry. Thor Hammer, based in the West Midlands, is a proud member of the Made in Britain organization. The company exports 44% of its products to 80 countries, serving industries such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial engineering. Its clients range from Formula One teams to major manufacturers worldwide.
Thor Hammer recently hosted Dr. Neil Shastri-Hurst, MP for Solihull West and Shirley, at its headquarters. The visit highlighted the company’s dedication to British manufacturing and the importance of export-driven growth for the UK economy. Thor Hammer is a long-standing member of Made in Britain, an organization that supports over 2,100 UK manufacturers. The group helps members navigate international markets, promote British craftsmanship, and strengthen the reputation of UK-made goods globally.
Steve Mason, Managing Director of Thor Hammer, emphasized the company’s commitment to preserving traditional skills. “We are not just creating a product; we are passing on over a century of expertise to the next generation of craftsmen. Our heritage is a key part of what we do, and we are proud to display the Made in Britain mark, which holds significant weight in the global market. Nearly half of our trade—44% in 2024—comes from exports,” he said.
Founded in the 1920s, Thor Hammer’s legacy is rooted in innovation. During World War II, the company produced soft-faced hammers and mallets for the war effort. Its dual copper and hide-faced design allowed for construction work to be done quietly, an essential feature for critical infrastructure projects. Today, Thor Hammer continues to apply its expert craftsmanship to serve modern industries worldwide.
The company is also known for its progressive approach to workforce management, introducing a four-day workweek years before it became a common practice. This decision has helped retain skilled workers, with more than half of the staff having been with the company for over a decade.
John Pearce, CEO of Made in Britain, praised Thor Hammer’s contribution to British manufacturing. “Thor Hammer, like many of our members, exemplifies the strength of British craftsmanship. Every product they make reinforces the reputation of Made in Britain as a symbol of quality, skill, and innovation on the global stage. I am proud to support their ongoing success in the export market,” Pearce said.
Dr. Neil Shastri-Hurst MP shared his enthusiasm about the company’s local impact. “It was a pleasure to meet Steve and his team at Thor Hammer in Shirley. Their products are world-renowned, and I’m delighted they are made in the heart of our local economy at Cranmore Business Park. I had the chance to see the precision engineering behind their hammers and even try building one myself. It was a great opportunity to discuss the challenges businesses face as they adapt to global market conditions.”
The Made in Britain mark is a valuable asset for manufacturers like Thor Hammer, boosting their credibility in international markets where British-made goods are highly regarded for their quality. As UK manufacturing continues to compete globally, organizations like Made in Britain play a crucial role in supporting skilled job creation, industrial growth, and export success.
