The Forbes Group has proudly celebrated its centenary with a special ceremony marking 100 years in business – a milestone that reflects a century of trusted service, innovation, and enduring family values.
Founded in 1926, Forbes has grown into a nationally recognised business serving both commercial and consumer markets across the UK, while remaining proudly family-owned throughout its history. Today, family members continue to work across all facets of the company, carrying forward the values and vision established a century ago.
The celebrations welcomed colleagues, customers, partners and distinguished guests, including the Mayor of Reigate and Banstead, Councillor Rich Michalowski, accompanied by his assistant Paul Danbury, for what was the Mayor’s final official engagement before the conclusion of his term of office. During the event, the Mayor officially unveiled Forbes’ commemorative centenary plaque, symbolising 100 years of community, commitment and relationships that have stood the test of time.
Today, The Forbes Group operates through two core pillars of the business.
Forbes Rentals serves consumers across the UK through a subscription-based rental model for home and electrical appliances, providing customers with flexible access to trusted products backed by award-winning service and support. Alongside this, Forbes Professional delivers specialist B2B solutions nationwide, supplying and supporting laundry and ware-washing appliances, alongside TV, AV and digital signage solutions, across sectors including hospitality, healthcare, care homes, education and essential services.
Speaking during the ceremony, Hannah Forbes, Director of Marketing and Brand Strategy, reflected on the company’s remarkable journey and the people who have shaped its success: “This plaque represents a century of community, commitment – and relationships that have stood the test of time.”
Hannah also paid tribute to her grandfather, Frederick Donald Forbes, whose founding vision established the business in 1925, as well as her late uncle Malcolm Forbes and father Stuart Forbes, who led the business together for decades of growth, transformation and success. Stuart continues to serve as Chairman of Forbes today.
Special recognition was also given to CEO Kevin Herring, the board members and management teams, alongside the many dedicated employees whose loyalty and expertise have been central to Forbes’ success over generations.
Remarkably, more than 37 members of staff have each served the company for over 30 years; a testament to the culture and commitment that continue to define the business today.
The company also expressed sincere gratitude to its longstanding customers and partners, many of whom have supported Forbes generation after generation. Their continued trust and loyalty have played an integral role in shaping the business over the last century.
The centenary celebration marks the beginning of a special year for The Forbes Group as the business honours its heritage whilst continuing to invest in innovation, service excellence and long-term partnerships for the future.
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