Swaythling passenger cars in the UK, leaving the Southampton made Transit as their only British-made vehicle. In 2009, with the new Kocaeli, Turkey, plant in full production, Ford reluctantly halved production at Southampton and reduced the workforce to just over 500. Employing 500 workers, the factory produced up to 35,000 Transit chassis/cab variant vehicles annually, of which 50% were exported. The Ford Southampton plant closed on 26 July 2013. The very first branch of the DIY chain B&Q was opened in Swaythling in 1969. The shop was owned by Messrs Block and Quayle. Swaythling railway station is on the main line
Ettinger (British company) the last leather goods manufacturers in Great Britain, the company is taking an active role in promoting craftsmanship and craft tutoring in the UK. Throughout the years, Ettinger has made all kinds of leather goods for many British brands, including Asprey, Harrods, Fortnum & Mason, and Bentley. The company is a member of the following business organisations: Ettinger (British company) G Ettinger Limited is a British company, based in London, specialising in luxury leather goods. Founded in 1934 by Gerry Ettinger, the eponymous company is still 100% family-owned and run. The company designs and is an artisanal manufacturer of small