As Luxe celebrates its 100th issue, we spotlight North East organisations marking remarkable milestones of their own…
Reaching 100 is no small feat.
For Luxe, our latest edition marks our 100th issue. It’s a milestone that reflects years spent celebrating the people, places and businesses that make the North East tick.
Along the way, we’ve featured unforgettable cover stars including Ant and Dec, Brenda Blethyn, Alan Shearer and Mark Knopfler. We’ve also shared the stories of some of the region’s most inspiring entrepreneurs, creatives and innovators.
Throughout it all, our pages have championed local success stories.
It’s a philosophy shared by the organisations in our 100 Club. Some are celebrating a century in business, while others have reached 100 in their own unique way.
Together, their stories represent resilience, ambition and a deep-rooted commitment to the communities they serve.
Thomas Swan & Co. Ltd
A hundred years after opening its doors in Consett, Thomas Swan & Co. remains a global success story with North East values at its heart.
Founded in 1926, the independent family-owned manufacturer has grown into an international supplier of speciality and performance chemicals. Today, it exports to more than 80 countries while continuing to invest in its home region.
The company has balanced innovation with responsibility throughout its growth. As a result, it has built a reputation for technical excellence, sustainable development and long-term partnerships.
A century on, Thomas Swan & Co. proves that a North East business can embrace the future without forgetting where it came from.
Steel & Varley Opticians
For generations of families in Whitley Bay and beyond, Steel & Varley has built its reputation on trusted eye care and personal service.
Now celebrating 100 years in business, the independent optician has combined traditional values with advances in optical technology. Along the way, it has earned a loyal following within the local community.
In an age of national chains and online retailers, its longevity speaks volumes. Expertise, continuity and genuine relationships have remained at the heart of the business throughout its century-long story.
Kielder Forest
What began as one of Britain’s most ambitious forestry projects has grown into one of the North East’s greatest natural treasures.
As Kielder Forest celebrates its centenary, it stands as the largest working forest in England. It has also become a much-loved destination for walkers, cyclists, wildlife enthusiasts and stargazers.
Home to millions of trees and an ever-changing landscape, its 100-year story is one of regeneration, conservation and recreation.
Above all, Kielder is a reminder that some of the region’s greatest legacies continue to grow stronger with every passing year.
Spicers of Hythe
Founded in Hythe, Kent in 1926, Spicers of Hythe has since found a new home in the North East. Today, its operations are firmly rooted in Gateshead.
Best known for its luxury hampers and gifts, the company has evolved over a century while remaining committed to quality and craftsmanship.
From its Gateshead base, it continues to serve customers across the UK. Nearly 100 years of heritage now sit alongside innovation, sustainability and a passion for thoughtful gifting.
Fergusons Transport Ltd
From a family-run haulage operation established in 1926 to a major logistics specialist, Fergusons Transport has spent a century keeping businesses moving.
Innovation has remained central to its development. Continued investment in modern fleets and technology has helped the company move with the changing demands of the industry.
Yet, while much has changed over the past 100 years, its focus on reliability, service and family values remains.
Now, Fergusons Transport is ready to carry that legacy into its second century.
