b&a quilting uk limited: Leading the UK’s Textile and Mattress Manufacturing Revolution
From Quilting Excellence to Global Mattress Partnerships, Discover the Story Behind the UK’s Industry Leader

B&A Quilting UK Limited is a leading textile manufacturing company based in Ashton-Under-Lyne, United Kingdom, renowned for its exceptional quilting, mattress production, and innovative fabric solutions. Established in 1971 and officially incorporated in 2011, the company has grown from a small family-run workshop into one of the UK’s most advanced and trusted manufacturers, supplying top-tier brands including the globally recognized Emma Mattress. With state-of-the-art facilities, decades of craftsmanship, and a global supply chain, b&a quilting uk limited continues to set the benchmark for quality, innovation, and customer service in the textile and sleep-product industries.
Introduction to B&A Quilting UK Limited
B&A Quilting UK Limited has carved its place in the British manufacturing landscape as a symbol of reliability, innovation, and craftsmanship. Operating from its main base at Oxford Mill in Ashton-Under-Lyne, the company has earned a stellar reputation for providing superior quilting services and a diverse range of textile products. Over the decades, it has evolved from a single-machine workshop into a multi-million-pound enterprise catering to leading brands in the bedding and textile industries. Its unwavering focus on quality and customer satisfaction has made it a trusted partner for both domestic and international clients.
The Early Years: From One Quilting Machine to Industry Recognition
The origins of b&a quilting uk limited date back to 1971, when founder Bashir Ahmed began operations with just one quilting machine. At the time, the focus was purely on creating high-quality quilted fabrics for local clients. The company’s commitment to precision and its ability to tailor designs to customer needs quickly gained attention, setting the foundation for future growth. By maintaining close relationships with clients and delivering consistently exceptional products, the company built a name that would later become synonymous with excellence in quilting.
The Road to Expansion and Diversification
The demand for quilted fabrics soon opened the door for diversification. By the early 2000s, B&A Quilting had expanded its capabilities to include mattress manufacturing, pillow production, and foam fabrication. This shift was not merely about adding more products; it was about becoming a complete solutions provider for the bedding industry. The move allowed the company to cater to a broader market and position itself as one of the most versatile textile manufacturers in the UK.
Operations at Oxford Mill: The Heart of Production
Oxford Mill in Ashton-Under-Lyne serves as the nerve centre of b&a quilting uk limited. This historic site has been modernized with advanced machinery, optimized workflows, and quality control processes that meet international standards. The location is not only a production facility but also a hub for design, prototyping, and client collaboration. It symbolizes the blending of heritage and innovation — a place where traditional craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology.
State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Capabilities
The company’s success is underpinned by its investment in modern machinery and technology. Automated quilting lines, multi-needle machines, foam-cutting systems, and vacuum-packing equipment allow for high-volume production without compromising quality. Additionally, their integration of ERP and MRP software ensures seamless supply chain management, precise inventory tracking, and efficient order fulfilment. This technological backbone enables the company to maintain competitiveness in an increasingly globalized market.
Product Portfolio: From Quilted Fabrics to Complete Mattresses
B&A Quilting’s range of products and services includes:
Quilted Fabrics: Produced using multi-needle quilting machines for various applications.
Mattresses: Including foam, spring, gel, and hybrid designs, with options for bed-in-a-box packaging.
Mattress and Pillow Covers: Designed in styles such as border covers and waterfall covers.
Specialist Foam Products: Custom-cut foam for bedding, upholstery, and industrial applications.
Bespoke Bedding Solutions: Tailored products for high-end clients requiring unique patterns and finishes.
Strategic Partnership with Emma Mattress
One of the company’s most significant achievements is its partnership with Emma Mattress, a globally recognized brand known for comfort and innovation. B&A Quilting produces high-quality quilted covers and components that form the backbone of Emma’s product range. This collaboration highlights the company’s ability to meet stringent quality standards while supporting large-scale, global distribution.
Global Reach and Sister Facilities
To enhance capacity and cost efficiency, b&a quilting uk limited established a sister facility, Bedouin (Pvt) Ltd, in Pakistan. This move provided a strategic advantage by enabling control over the entire production process, from material sourcing to final assembly, while maintaining European quality benchmarks. The combination of UK and overseas facilities allows the company to serve diverse markets effectively.
Overcoming Adversity: The 2019 Factory Fire
In 2019, tragedy struck when a fire destroyed the Oxford Mill facility. For many companies, such an event could have spelled the end. However, B&A Quilting turned this setback into an opportunity for renewal. Within six months, operations resumed in a larger, more advanced facility, marking the start of a new chapter in the company’s growth story.
Technological Transformation and Modernization
Post-fire reconstruction allowed the company to redesign its processes with efficiency in mind. New machinery, upgraded software systems, and streamlined workflows were implemented to meet modern manufacturing demands. The adoption of ERP/MRP systems not only improved productivity but also reduced waste and enhanced product traceability, strengthening the company’s competitive edge.
Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Quality has always been at the core of B&A Quilting’s philosophy. Every product undergoes rigorous testing to ensure durability, comfort, and compliance with industry standards. The company also takes steps toward sustainability, including the use of eco-friendly materials, waste reduction strategies, and energy-efficient machinery. This commitment ensures that their products are not only top-tier but also environmentally responsible.
Skilled Workforce and Company Culture
The company’s workforce of nearly 100 employees is one of its greatest assets. Skilled machinists, designers, engineers, and quality controllers work together to deliver outstanding results. A culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and teamwork ensures that staff remain motivated and equipped with the latest industry skills.
Industry Impact and Recognition
B&A Quilting’s influence extends beyond its own operations. By supplying some of the most reputable bedding brands in the world, it plays a significant role in shaping industry trends. The company’s achievements have earned it recognition within the UK manufacturing sector as a benchmark for quality and resilience.
Future Outlook and Innovation Roadmap
Looking ahead, the company plans to invest further in automation, explore sustainable materials, and expand its global footprint. With the rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer mattress brands, b&a quilting uk limited is well-positioned to leverage its manufacturing expertise to meet evolving market needs.
Final Thoughts
From humble beginnings in 1971 to becoming a leader in the UK’s textile and bedding industries, b&a quilting uk limited exemplifies resilience, innovation, and excellence. Its journey is a testament to how a commitment to quality, adaptability, and strategic partnerships can propel a company to the forefront of its field. With a strong foundation, a skilled team, and a forward-thinking approach, the company is poised for continued success in the decades to come.