The World’s Original Travel Tin Manufacturer

Simpkins has been manufacturing high quality confectionery in Great Britain since 1921. As a third generation, family owned company, they specialize in producing and distributing premium grade glucose sweets and sugar free confectionery. Known globally for their iconic travel tins, Simpkins supplies customers worldwide with a diverse range of classic flavors and also offers bespoke creations and contract manufacturing upon request.

Simpkins are proud to be the ORIGINAL manufacturer of Travel Sweets. Blended and manufactured with care to meet the highest standards in confectionery worldwide.

A Legacy of Sweet Craftsmanship: The Simpkins Story

Founded in 1921 by Albert Leslie Simpkin following his return from World War I, Simpkins has become a distinguished name in British confectionery. Albert’s original vision was to create high quality glucose sweets using natural flavours and colours wherever possible. By targeting chemists and pharmacies rather than competing directly with mass market confectionery producers, he carved out a unique niche. Within just three years, Simpkins had secured over 12,000 UK retail accounts, achieving 80% nationwide coverage.

To accommodate growing demand, Albert purchased a fire damaged refrigeration plant in Hillsborough, Sheffield, and transformed it into a 40,000 sq. ft. purpose built confectionery factory, eventually employing 180 staff. This expansion also marked a turning point in the company’s product development: the introduction of powdered sweets in airtight 8oz tins. A format that would become iconic.

The use of tins was not only practical but necessary. Because Simpkins sweets contained a high fruit juice content, exposure to moisture made them sticky. Initially, sugar powder was added to reduce clumping, but the development of seamless tins in the 1950s ensured a much longer shelf life, preserving freshness for years. These tins, originally filled with Barley Sugar Drops, known to ease symptoms of travel sickness, cemented Simpkins as the original Travel Sweets manufacturer.

During WWII, confectionery rationing led to regional sales zoning. Simpkins was designated to distribute in the North of England, while competitors handled the South. Despite the limitations, Simpkins maintained strong pharmacy and health food store presence. Markets they continue to serve to this day, alongside garage forecourts, premium confectionery retailers, and more.

In addition to its own label, Simpkins has become a trusted producer for numerous private-label and corporate branded products, offering bespoke manufacturing solutions.

Global Expansion

Simpkins has proudly been exporting since the early 20th century, starting with Commonwealth countries and later expanding to global markets with their signature Travel Tins. The sweets gained international popularity thanks to their distinctive taste, texture, and premium packaging. Especially in Japan, where the tins became status symbols and were widely gifted.

The company’s commitment to using natural colours and flavours helped meet strict food regulations in countries like Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Through the strategic efforts of John Simpkin, the company’s export reach now spans over 40 countries.

A Family-Owned Tradition

What began as a personal post war venture grew into a multi generational enterprise. Albert Leslie Simpkin was eventually joined by his sons Neville, Brian, and John. In 2002, John Simpkin assumed full control of A.L. Simpkin & Co. Ltd. Today, the company is led by his children, Adrian and Karen Simpkin, who serve as joint Managing Directors. Under their stewardship, Simpkins continues to blend tradition with innovation, upholding its century long reputation for quality and craftsmanship.