Kenwood Memories: The Story of an Iconic Brand

David Murray has done a sterling job in writing "Kenwood Memories: The Story of an Iconic Brand" published by The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre in Havant. It is a remarkable record of everything you've ever wanted to know about Kenwood, particularly if you or a family member ever worked for the company.

I was asked to write the introduction for the book!

Here is the press release about the launch of the book:

Memories of Kenwood workers feature in new book

A new book featuring the memories of workers at Kenwood’s factory and offices in New Lane, Havant, has been published by The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre.

Kenwood Memories: The Story of an Iconic Brand traces the history of the internationally famous company, which was founded by Kenneth Wood in Woking in 1947 before it moved to Havant in 1962.

Funded by a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the book covers Kenwood’s early successes in Woking, including the invention of the iconic Kenwood Chef, before focusing on the move to Havant and subsequent takeover by Thorn in 1968, which led to the departure of Kenneth Wood. The company’s more recent history, including the management buy-out in 1989 and takeover by current owner De’Longhi in 2001, is also featured.

John Wood, stepson of Kenneth, says: “With a great deal of detail, including examples of actual staff contracts and correspondence, and many wonderful photos, the book takes you right up to the present day with chapters on the management buy-out, the manufacturing move to China and the De’Longhi takeover. As well as the ultimate reference guide to all things Kenwood, this book is a glorious trip down memory lane if you, your parents or even your grandparents ever worked for the company.”

The book is available to buy from The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, priced £5.