Fiddes: for beautiful wood, since 1896

Originally manufacturing paints and distempers to the joinery and building market, founder Alfred Fiddes moved from Bristol to Cardiff in 1896 to set up a small manufacturing workshop on Trade Street, where he continued to develop and manufacture wood finishes over the next 30 years.

His son-in-law Robert joined the business following the Second World War, and, seizing a new opportunity, developed their portfolio with a wider range of specialist wood finishes. By the early 1950s, Fiddes had become a recognised supplier within the UK’s professional furniture and antique restoration market, providing a complete range of wax polishes, lacquers, shellacs and wood dyes.

By the early 1970s, third-generation Ian Fiddes was instrumental in firmly establishing with Fiddes brand in the trade and retail markets, which he achieved with the support of his wife, Elizabeth, and a dedicated team, some of whom remain with the company to this day.

1987 saw Rob Fiddes join amidst a rapid expansion for the company. But tragedy was to strike a decade later when a fire destroyed over 70% of the premises. Rob steered the company through a tumultuous two-year period of reconstruction, including the development of their new premises on Brindley Road. Over the following 20 years, new markets and products have been developed, including a durable, quick-drying Hard Wax Oil, and a new range of glass coatings for the food and drink, and decorative industries.

Fiddes are proud of their family heritage and retain of progressive outlook, ensuring a continued policy for investment in manufacturing and technology. Fiddes offer advice and a comprehensive range of wood finishes and accessories for furniture, floors and interiors and exterior wood surfaces at their new showroom off Penarth Road.