…the future is rather uncertain.
Directors of Old Castle Tinplate Company, 1915
The Old Castle Iron and Tinplate Company Limited (later to be known as the Old Castle Tinplate Company) was formed in 1866. The company records (Ref. LAC/87) tell the story of the business, one of a number of tinplate works in the Llanelli area, which was nicknamed ‘Tinopolis’.
The general meetings minute book for 1915-1938 (LAC/87/B/3) is an illuminating example of the impact of conflict on businesses and the work force. Through the directors’ reports we also learn about the national effect on the tinplate industry and related supply and manufacturing trades.
Concerns over production
- Initial concerns that work would have to come to a complete standstill due to export prohibitions. Some of these restrictions were relaxed with special licences issued to declare that exports to neutral countries would not ultimately end up for use in enemy countries. However, each separate shipment was reviewed individually, which was a timely process and held up orders.
- The effect of becoming a ‘controlled establishment’ under the Munitions War Act of 1915, particularly managing profit.
- Increase in the proportion of tinplate manufactured for Government purposes to contribute to the War effort, for food packaging for the Army and Navy.
Effect on the workforce
- The numbers of the workforce who responded to their country’s call. This increased in 1917 as the tinplate industry was removed from the list of reserved occupations. The total number called up from the Old Castle Tinplate Company was 266.
- Company contributions for wives and other dependents of serving men, a total of £2080-15-10 during the war years. The workforce supplemented this amount with weekly payments from their funds.
- Injuries, fatalities and honours for the workforce.
Post war recovery
- Demobilisation and arrangements for the return of the workforce.
- Business continuity- an initial upturn was reported due to good demand in order to replenish depleted stocks, however this came with warnings about severe competition from abroad and particularly America.
The Old Castle Tinplate Company managed to keep some of its mills open during the war years despite restrictions on raw materials and shipping, and the absence of a large section of the workforce. It was the pressure from international competition which caused more problems in the following years. After the war, the company commissioned a memorial to its fallen, which can now be found at Kidwelly Industrial Museum.