Last Updated on: 8th November 2025, 05:13 pm
Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Co. is proud to share that its founder, Amanda Oldfield, has been awarded the 2025 Made in Britain Impact Award for Inspirational Leadership.
Amanda founded Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Co. at 45, motivated by a wish to preserve the authenticity and traditional skill she believed should define British metal bedmaking. Today, the company is recognised for its made-in-Britain craftsmanship and its fair, transparent approach to sourcing British wool directly from farmers.
Her outlook was shaped by childhood on her grandparents’ smallholding near Wimblington, Cambridgeshire, watching her grandfather work with Shire horses, Dolly and Price. Those early lessons in patience, pride and care now inform every part of the business. To ensure farmers receive fair value for the fleece and to maintain full traceability, Amanda took the unusual step of becoming a shepherdess herself.
Amanda Oldfield, Founder, Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Co. said: “This award truly belongs to our team and the farmers who stand with us. At 67, I want this to say loud and clear, to women and to men, that age is just a number. Curiosity, courage and contribution don’t expire. British manufacturing thrives when we keep craft close to home, pay people fairly, and make things to last.”
The judges praised Amanda for guiding a family-run workshop into a respected British manufacturing company known for fostering skills, heritage and innovation. Her hands-on leadership style and commitment to mentoring a multi-generational team were key factors in her recognition.
Her son, Harry Thompson, Head of Brand Development at Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Co., said: “Amanda leads by doing, on the factory floor and in the fields. She’s shown us that excellence is a habit and integrity is a choice. We’re honoured to carry that standard forward.”
The judging panel noted Amanda’s role in strengthening British craft, supporting rural supply chains, and embedding repairability, longevity and traceability into the company’s design ethos.
This past year, Amanda has expanded work with farmers, enhanced full-fleece supply transparency, and deepened customer understanding of wool’s environmental and practical value. By becoming a shepherdess, she has set a powerful example of sustainability put into real-world practice. As she steps back from daily operations, she leaves a lasting culture of respect, care and craftsmanship.
Beyond the business, Amanda has launched Wool for Welfare, a social initiative collecting wool, including from her own flock, to support local families and children in need through horticultural projects.
