Fulwood's SMD Group Made its Start in Blackpool

Currently based in Fullwood, Preston, SMD Textiles Ltd was originally registered in 1987 and has grown from its family-owned roots into a leader in the interior textiles market. They have made their mark as one of the UK’s leading premium interior fabric brands. Now referred to as SMD Group, it has launched the iLiv brand in 2013, which specialises in coordinating fabric to make it easier than ever for customers to create beautiful interiors. Various collections have been launched under the iLiv brand, including Fjord, Palladio, Piazza, Adara, Charlton, Elements, In Bloom, Shabby Chic, and themed children’s ranges.

In addition to SMD’s commercial activities, it has engaged in philanthropic efforts, such as donating fabric to support sewing communities in Rwanda. Shortly after the launch of iLiv, SMD Contracts re-branded to iLiv Contract Fabrics, now carrying over 4,000 mostly flame retardant fabrics and over 30 coordinating fabric collections.

In 1987, SMD Textiles made its start in a small building on Cornford Road in Blackpool, which is now occupied by Wiley’s Finest. From 21 November 1990, its registered address was with its Blackpool accountants, Horne Brook Shenton, at 21 Cauce Street, and it stayed there for several years.