John and Thomas Fownes established Fownes Brothers and Co., Inc. in Worcester, England. It all began in 1777. Gloves were their main focus. The company was the very first to industrialize the performance of preparing leather, cutting, trimming, and sewing. 

The industry hit it's peak between 1790 - 1820. Half of British gloves were made in Worcester. The Fownes Brothers made a name for themselves. They decided it was time to expand internationally. Success increased as they entered the American market in 1887. New York City holds their office. It is sill maintained even to this day! It became the global headquarters for sales, merchandising, and design. 

As the business continued to grow, they created an office in Shanghai. This was to state the needs of global customers.