Leading yacht upholsterer, Passmore, proudly marks its 65th anniversary, celebrating a legacy of innovation, dedication and craftsmanship to the marine industry.
From its humble origins, the company has since evolved into a notable provider of bespoke yacht upholstery, serving some of the finest names in British yachting.
Founded in 1960 by Edith O’Hanlon-Smith (née Passmore), the company originally operated as a domestic retail store in Colchester and Ipswich. Her son, Terence O’Hanlon-Smith, took the helm in December 1970, bringing experience from his time in the soft furnishings department at Harrods. A pivotal moment came in 1978 when Passmore expanded into the marine sector, leasing a workshop on Mersea Island in Essex. This move allowed the company to become an essential supplier to emerging yacht builders, including the prestigious Oyster Yachts.
Today, Passmore Yacht Upholstery specialises exclusively in marine upholstery, offering bespoke reupholstery services and soft furnishings tailored to luxury yachts. The company works closely with renowned yacht builders such as Oyster Yachts and Spirit Yachts as well as long-standing refurbishing clients Vortec Marine and Fox’s Marina.
Our passion for craftsmanship and commitment to excellence have been the driving forces behind our success
says Rik O’Hanlon-Smith, Edith’s grandson and Terence’s son, who took over full ownership of the family business in 2012 to become Director alongside his wife and co-owner, Julie-Ann Kwok.
Every project we undertake is unique, and we take pride in sourcing the finest materials from around the world to create stunning, handcrafted interiors for luxury boats and yachts.
Recognising the growing demand in the superyacht sector, Passmore expanded operations in 2013 with the opening of Passmore of Southampton. This facility was established to work closely with a major customer’s yard on the South Coast, providing upholstery services for superyachts ranging from 80ft to 120ft or more.
Over the years, Passmore has been involved in high-profile projects, including the award-nominated Spirit Yachts 47CR cruising yacht.
Passmore shares Spirit Yachts’ commitment to the highest level of quality, customisation and customer service. Our long-standing collaboration has delivered beautiful, bespoke upholstery solutions for Spirit Yachts cruising and racing in destinations worldwide
comments Karen Underwood, Managing Director at Spirit Yachts.
Also proud to celebrate Passmore’s remarkable legacy, a spokesperson from Oyster Yachts adds,
Congratulations to Passmore on an outstanding 65 years! The quality of your work, care and attention to detail have made you a trusted partner to Oyster Yachts since the very beginning. We’re proud to have worked with you for over four decades and look forward to many more.
As Passmore celebrates 65 years in business, it looks ahead with pride, eager to build on its tradition of excellence and innovation.
Reaching our 65th is an incredible milestone. We take immense pride in our heritage and the relationships we’ve built over the years, and as we look to the future, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of excellence in marine upholstery, ensuring every project reflects the passion and precision that have defined Passmore for decades
adds, Julie-Ann Kwok.
