The Story of Mark Harris Upholstery Ltd

Mark Harris Upholstery Ltd carries a proud legacy rooted in hard work, craftsmanship, and dedication passed down through three generations. The story begins with Mark Harris’ grandfather, John Harris, a young man with an indomitable spirit. In 1914, at just 16 years old, he lied about his age to enlist in the British Army during World War I. He was deployed to the infamous Battle of the Somme, where he was gravely wounded. After recovering from his injuries, John was determined to serve his country in a different way and found work at Vickers, a leading manufacturer of military tanks and aircraft. There, he honed his skills in upholstery, meticulously crafting seats for the war machines that played a crucial role in the defense of the nation.

John Harris’ attention to detail and passion for his trade became his lifelong calling. After the war, he passed on his knowledge and expertise to his youngest son, Leonard. Inspired by his father’s stories and craftsmanship, Leonard followed in his footsteps but took his own path, serving in the Royal Air Force for 22 years. During his time in the RAF, Leonard developed a deeper appreciation for engineering and upholstery, which became a cornerstone of his life after he left the service in 1969. That same year, he launched his own upholstery business, combining his technical knowledge and hands-on experience with the traditions his father had instilled in him.

The family business flourished for decades, with Leonard working tirelessly, but a tragic accident in the late 1980s left him blind in one eye. His son, Mark Harris, who had grown up surrounded by the family trade, took over the business to continue his father’s legacy. Mark had already established himself within the upholstery industry, working as a furniture consultant for some of the country’s leading upholstery companies. However, after taking over the family business, Mark saw an opportunity for growth in a new direction. As the dawn of the internet age arrived, he pivoted from traditional upholstery to foam retail, founding  thefoamshop .co.uk & Foam4U, an innovative company that brought quality foam products directly to consumers in the emerging e-commerce market.

Mark Harris Upholstery Ltd continues to thrive today, a testament to the Harris family’s resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence over the course of more than a century.