In a world where businesses rise and fall in a generation, longevity speaks volumes. Peter Marsh Group, established in 1837, has been quietly shaping the backbone of British industry for nearly two centuries. Based in Liverpool, a city once at the heart of global trade routes, this family-rooted business has weathered revolutions in manufacturing, wars, economic upheavals and vast changes in consumer demand. 

Through it all, one constant has remained: the production of high-quality sacks that keep goods safe, secure and moving.

1837: A Year of Change

To appreciate the scale of Peter Marsh Group’s heritage, it’s worth looking back at the year it all began. 1837 was the year Queen Victoria ascended the throne, marking the start of an era of industrial progress and global expansion for Britain. The railways were being laid, steamships were reshaping commerce and Liverpool stood as one of the busiest ports in the world.

It was in this environment that Peter Marsh Group began manufacturing sacks, at first for local merchants, millers and exporters. At a time when British goods were flowing out to every corner of the empire, reliable packaging was not just useful, it was essential. From flour and grain to chemicals and construction materials, the humble sack underpinned industries that built modern Britain.

Surviving and Thriving Through History

What makes Peter Marsh Group remarkable is not just its age, but its ability to adapt. Few manufacturers from the Victorian era are still operating today, let alone in such a specialised field.

  • Industrial Revolution: As mechanisation took hold, sack manufacturing evolved from hand-stitched designs to machine-driven production, scaling to meet the needs of fast-growing industries.
  • World Wars: During both conflicts, sacks became vital for transporting food and raw materials. Despite shortages and rationing, Peter Marsh Group kept producing, ensuring supply chains could keep moving.
  • Post-War Boom: The 1950s and 60s brought consumerism and mass production. Packaging had to be stronger, more efficient, and increasingly branded. Peter Marsh Group was among the first to invest in new printing and finishing technologies.
  • Globalisation & Sustainability: In recent decades, the company has focused on supplying businesses not just across the UK but internationally, responding to modern demands for recyclable, food-grade and environmentally responsible packaging.

This consistent ability to meet the needs of each generation is why the company has become one of the UK’s leading sack manufacturers, trusted by producers in food, agriculture, construction, and chemical industries.

Still Leading from Liverpool

Liverpool remains home to Peter Marsh Group’s operations, a fitting location given the city’s long-standing role as a hub for trade and logistics. From here, the company serves businesses across the UK and beyond, combining historic craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology.

Modern sacks produced by Peter Marsh Group are a far cry from their 19th-century ancestors. Today, they range from block bottom, valve sacks and more, to custom paper sacks with multi-ply strength, barrier linings and advanced printing. Whether it’s flour that must stay dry and compliant with new fortification rules, or cement that must withstand rough handling in transit, the company continues to provide reliable, tailored solutions.

A Testament to Resilience

Not many manufacturers can claim nearly 200 years of uninterrupted trading. That endurance is a reflection of values that have stood the test of time:

  • Consistency – delivering products that perform reliably, batch after batch.
  • Innovation – adopting new technologies while maintaining traditional quality.
  • Partnership – working closely with clients to understand and solve their specific packaging challenges.

As industries continue to face pressure from regulation, sustainability and consumer expectations. Peter Marsh Group’s expertise offers stability in a changing world.

Looking Ahead to the Next 200 Years

From Victorian mills to today’s global food producers. Peter Marsh Group has been at the side of British business for generations. Their story is more than just one of survival, it’s about continuously turning heads with quality, innovation and trustworthiness.

Now, as Peter Marsh Group approaches their 200th anniversary, the company isn’t looking back. They are focused on the future: smarter sack design, sustainable materials and helping businesses meet the challenges of tomorrow.

For companies across the UK and beyond, the message is clear: if you’re looking for packaging with nearly two centuries of proven expertise behind it, Peter Marsh Group is ready to deliver into the future.

Speak to our trusted and experienced Business Development Team for more information. We look forward to the future of working together.