90 Years – Supporting Surgery since 1936 – And the Next Chapter Begins

Bolton Surgical (formerly Wm. H. Bolton & Co) Celebrates 90 Years Serving the Healthcare Industry

In 1936, William Henry Bolton opened a small ‘scissor workshop’ in the heart of Sheffield. Ninety years later, his family’s business continues to serve surgical teams across the UK and in countries around the world.

Bolton Surgical (formerly known as Wm. H. Bolton & Co) — is one of the UK’s most respected and long-established manufacturers, suppliers, distributers and repairers of surgical instruments. What began as a two-man ‘little mesters scissor workshop’ during the pre-war years has grown into a fourth-generation business supplying hospitals, clinics and private healthcare providers from its modern facility in the north of the city. From day one, the goal has always been to provide surgical teams with instruments they can rely on to get the job done, time after time.  Coupled with a clear focus on improving patient safety, quality in everything they do has been the key to their longevity and success.

From the early days manufacturing bullet forceps for wartime medics, to supporting surgeons in the development of innovative surgical procedures such as the Heald Retractor System® for Total Mesorectal Excision (TME), the business has always combined collaboration with engineering know-how.

But while this 90th anniversary is a time to reflect, it’s also about looking ahead.

“We’re incredibly proud of our heritage,” says Managing Director Lyndsey Bolton, great-granddaughter of the founder. “But we’re even more focused on the future — making sure we continue to support surgical teams with the highest quality products and services.”

Today, in addition to their ethos of continuous improvement in the products and services they provide, they are exploring more sustainable approaches to all their operations in Sheffield whilst focussing on reducing their carbon footprint.

With many competitors now absorbed by multinationals, Bolton Surgical remains independently owned by the Bolton family.  A crucial element which supports their customer first ethos by allowing the business to remain agile and dynamic.  In turn, they  offer flexibility in their product and service offerings to suit customer’s needs.

As part of its #Boltons@90 campaign, the company will be sharing moments from its nine-decade journey — including archival images, team reflections and customer stories — to celebrate the people and partnerships behind its growth.

If you’ve worked with Bolton Surgical over the years — as a customer, distributor, NHS partner or supplier — we thank you. And if you’re just getting to know us, welcome. We look forward to the next chapter.

Follow us on LinkedIn for updates and #Bolton90 content throughout the year.
Learn more about our services: www.boltons.co.uk