Heading
Close X
Menu
Ford of Britain is marking a remarkable milestone this week as the company celebrates 115 years since its incorporation, honouring a legacy that has shaped the nation’s automotive landscape for more than a century.
Founded in 1911, Ford’s UK operations began by assembling and selling the Model T—bringing accessible, mass‑produced motoring to Britain for the first time. This pioneering move paved the way for the construction of the iconic Dagenham plant, built on reclaimed marshland and destined to become one of the most important manufacturing sites in British automotive history.
Over the decades, Ford of Britain produced some of the country’s most recognisable and best‑loved vehicles. Models such as the Anglia, Cortina, Escort, Fiesta, and the ever‑reliable Transit became woven into daily life across the UK—serving families, businesses, and communities for generations. As Poppy McKenzie Smith, Corporate and Brand Communications Lead at Ford of Britain, shared, “These aren’t just vehicles; they’re part of our collective memory… markers of family holidays, first jobs, and the daily rhythm of life across the country.”
Ford of Britain’s achievements go far beyond its vehicles. The company built Britain’s first £100 family saloon, created performance icons that captured public imagination, and provided stable employment to hundreds of thousands over its long history. McKenzie Smith emphasised that the anniversary is not only about the past but about continued momentum:
Today, Ford of Britain remains a core part of the automotive industry, supported by dedicated employees, loyal customers, and an extensive dealer network. As the brand continues its transition toward electrification and advanced mobility, this anniversary offers both a moment of reflection and a renewed sense of purpose.
From the Model T to modern electrified vehicles, Ford of Britain’s 115‑year journey is a testament to innovation, partnership, and an enduring bond with the British public.
