Liverpool aerospace supplier ASG King & Fowler dates back to 1887 and the firm is celebrating the ‘remarkable’ service of two team members who between them have notched up 102 years. Tony McDonough reports

Steve Smedley and Robert Rice have, between them, notched up 102 years of combined service at Liverpool aerospace supplier ASG King & Fowler.

Now the firm, which itself dates back 138 years to 1887, is celebrating the “remarkable long service’ of its dynamic duo. Steve has been with the business for 48 years while Robert is now in his 54th year.

ASG King & Fowler is based just north of Liverpool city centre. In 2020 it was acquired by Stockport-based ASG Group. This is a collection of eight aerospace suppliers across the UK, Germany and India.

Employing more than 340 people, the £45m-turnover group specialises in the design, development, and production of aircraft parts, components, and systems.

That deal, for an undisclosed sum, safeguarded all 59 jobs at the Liverpool site and saw and was followed by a £140,000 investment in new plant. This was followed by a further £1.35m investment in September 2023.

In Liverpool ASG King & Fowler specialises in the treatment of surfaces for aerospace components with giant planemaker Airbus a key client.

Steve, a production manager, joined the company in the late 1970s and has seen “monumental shifts” in the manufacturing industry. In particular he says the transition from manual processes to a fully automated, data-driven environment has been transformative. 

His role in overseeing production has been critical in this change. From a traditional workshop to a state-of-the-art aerospace surface finishing facility, his leadership and adaptability have ensured that King & Fowler remains at the forefront of the industry.

Engineering manager Robert joined ASG King & Fowler in 1971. He observes how, in his early years, Liverpool was a hub of traditional industry. Now, the focus has shifted to precision, innovation, and adhering to the rigorous standards set by the aerospace sector. 

Robert’s “unwavering commitment to quality” and his ability to adapt to new technologies and methodologies “have set a benchmark for excellence”. Under his guidance, ASG King & Fowler has achieved numerous industry accolades.

Both Steve and Robert recall the visit of Princess Margaret in 1987. This occasion marked the firm’s centenary and highlighted its enduring contribution to Liverpool’s manufacturing heritage. 

“It was a proud moment for everyone involved, reinforcing the importance of our work not only to the aerospace industry but also to the local community,” said Steve.

Robert added: “The visit was a testament to the generations of employees who built the company into what it is today, standing on the shoulders of giants to maintain and grow its success.”

Reflecting on the remarkable milestones of Steve and Robert, Stephen Dean, managing director of ASG King & Fowler, also said: “Steve and Robert are astonishing examples of dedication, expertise and resilience.

“Their contributions over the decades have been instrumental in shaping the company’s success. On behalf of everyone at ASG King & Fowler, we extend heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude for their incredible service.”