J&C Joel: A Legacy of Innovation and Family
A proud history woven: J&C Joel’s story is not merely about fabric; it is about families, passion, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. For over 150 years, the Wheelwright family has woven a rich tapestry of artisanry and innovation, evolving from humble beginnings in West Yorkshire to becoming renowned experts in flame retardant fabrics and stage engineering solutions.
From fulling to Front of House: Our journey began in 1847, when George Wheelwright Ltd. mastered the art of fulling, transforming wool into durable textiles. A new chapter unfolded in 1974 with the birth of J&C Joel, born from John Wheelwright’s vision to serve the entertainment industry.
Black Wool Serge: A cornerstone of success: the iconic black Wool Serge, introduced in 1976, became the backbone of J&C Joel. This flame retardant fabric, prized for its drape and versatility, soon graced theatres, and stages across the globe, silently contributing to countless performances.
Expansion and evolution: From scenery canvas and acoustic solutions to bespoke fabrics and innovative stage machinery, J&C Joel constantly pushed boundaries. We moved to larger facilities, embraced wide-width fabrics, and established international offices.
James takes the helm: In 1998, James Wheelwright, the sixth generation, joined the family legacy. His fresh perspective and leadership ushered in a period of explosive growth, with offices opening across Asia and the Middle East.
Beyond fabrics: inspiring dreams on stage. Today, J&C Joel is more than just a fabric supplier; we are your partner in creating unforgettable experiences. From the London Olympics to renowned music tours, our design, manufacture, and installation expertise fuels the magic of live events.
A family affair, a global community: the secret to our success? It is the people. The enthusiastic team at J&C Joel, many of whom have been with us for decades, are the very fabric of our company. We are a family, united by a shared commitment to quality and a love for the transformative power of live performance.
The future beckons: as we celebrate our rich heritage, we look to the future with excitement. Driven by innovation and fuelled by family spirit, J&C Joel is poised to continue weaving its legacy into the world’s most spectacular events, one venue at a time.
