More Than Bespoke Boxes
Cardboard is a versatile material, meaning that there is never a dull moment for a cardboard manufacturer. Requests come in for all sorts of packaging solutions, furniture and fittings. So, we were fascinated to learn about bespoke box manufacturer Thomas Norman & Sons in Bermondsey.
This cardboard specialist was renowned for making luxury packaging for retailers. The bespoke boxes were covered with decorative papers for hats, gloves and other quality items. Buyers would keep the packaging and store the items inside, who wouldn’t want to hold onto one of these delights?
Request for Cardboard Torpedoes
The company also made strong paper bags with string handles and other retail packaging. But, a different request came in during WWII. The area was targeted by German bombers, so the company was open to an order from the American Army. Production then turned to cardboard torpedoes.
The torpedoes, called Air Jettison Tanks, were sealable cardboard tubes. No fancy decoration was needed, as these were filled with petrol and a detonator by the Army and dropped over German targets, exploding on impact. For this role, cardboard provided a cheaper and more practical option than metal.
After the war, the company returned to its tradition of manufacturing retail boxes and bags. However, some remember how it stepped up and played a role in the war effort.
