Alsager-based interiors company clocks up 50 years in the town and asks for treasured memories

By Deborah Bowyer 6th Apr 2025

John Steele with his son (Jack Steele) and nephew (Lewis Jones) outside their showroom, in Alsager. (Photo: Curtains and Comfort)
John Steele with his son (Jack Steele) and nephew (Lewis Jones) outside their showroom, in Alsager. (Photo: Curtains and Comfort)

A renowned family-run interiors specialist is proudly celebrating 55 years in business and is asking for anyone with memories of the firm to get in touch.

Established in 1969 by Harry Steele under the name Tower Furnishing, the company has grown from its humble beginnings next to Tower Square in Tunstall, not far from the famous clock tower, hence the name, into a leading provider of high-quality curtains, blinds, awnings, home automation, and upholstery.

Now called Curtains and Comfort Interiors, the business has customers far and wide and wants to hear from anyone who remembers them during their 55 years, 50 of them spent in Alsager.

Managing Director John Steele, who was born the same year his father launched the business, continues the family legacy alongside a dedicated team including younger family members.

He says the business has been kept buoyant thanks to its excellent reputation and great customer service over the years.

And he says developments in smart technology which allows customers to close their blinds, shutters and curtains at the touch of a button from anywhere in the world, has also helped boost the industry. 

He added: "My advice to any business is to stay at the forefront of technological developments. As soon as home automation was launched, we made sure we were trained on how to install and maintain the technology."

Today, Curtains & Comfort, based in Alsager supplies bespoke interior solutions to homeowners, hotels and prestigious stately homes across the UK and wider.

Company founder (deceased) Harry Steele outside the showroom in Alsager (circa 1985). (Photo: Curtains and Comfort)

Reflecting on the company's success, John Steele said: "Reaching 55 years in business is a testament to the quality of our craftsmanship and service.

"We take pride in delivering high-end, tailored solutions that stand the test of time.

"Too often, homeowners rush to big chains without realising the value of a local, more sustainable family-run business like ours.

"We would love to hear from anyone in the community who remembers Tower Furnishing of Tunstall. Do you still have a chair, sofa, or pair of curtains made by my dad? If so, please get in touch: [email protected]"

John says he would like to showcase any old photographs or soft furnishings, in memory of his dad, at the Alsager showroom. 

He would like to display the discoveries as part of Stoke-on-Trent's Centenary celebrations which begin in June this year.

His dad moved the business from Tunstall, in Stoke-on-Trent, to Alsager's high street in 1975, to what is now Indian Heaven restaurant. 

When John took over the business from his dad twenty years later in 1995, he moved the business to Townend Business Park, in Alsager, next to the Manor House Hotel, where it remains today. 

John's dad passed away in 2008 but John says his memory very much lives on in the business

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