IXL logo dating back to 1907

Livery Street premises 1868 - 1923

Main Press Shop circa 1914

Llandrindod Wells - Head Office and manufacturing facility

Our history

In 1877, just one year after the telephone was invented, Robert Setten of Devon and Francis Durward of Scotland decided to establish a stationers' sundries wholesaling business in Birmingham trading as Setten and Durward.

By 1888 they had a branch in Victorian London and were enjoying a thriving export trade.

Following the turn of the century, a new factory and warehouse was built in Birmingham and the world famous IXL trademark was acquired in 1907. Continued expansion and development over the next 50 years or so saw Setten and Durward emerge as one of Britain's leading file manufacturers and, in 1965, the decision was taken to relocate all commercial and manufacturing activities to a purpose built factory in Llandrindod Wells, Powys, Wales. With ample space for expansion the site developed and in 1986 a new warehouse was opened.

In January 1992 Premier-Grip Ltd at Bedwas was acquired. This acquisition further strengthened the company's manufacturing base.

In 1993 the Group was reorganised with Setten Holdings becoming the parent company of both Setten and Durward and Premier-Grip. Building expansion continued at Llandrindod Wells, and 1994 saw the linking of the warehouse to the manufacturing unit with a 20,000 square foot extension bringing the total to 120,000 square foot.

During 1998 the business of Premier-Grip became integrated into Setten and Durward, with all administration and distribution being handled from Llandrindod Wells.

In April 2008 the assets of the Group were purchased by Setten IXL Limited.

Setten IXL Limited, still proudly independent, has a programme of continual development and investment. The cost-effective production capacity is maintaining the company's position in the forefront of the filing market, thus ensuring that IXL and Premier-Grip together with customer brand products meet the buyer's requirements.

Turnover is £10 million, supplying product nationwide through all trade channels of distribution together with an extensive export trade.