Established 1803

1803 – John Riddel established his company in High Street, Belfast it is now one of Ulster’s oldest family firms. Originally the company traded in iron steel and tinplate. Going on to expand into machinery and hardware.

1865 – William Riddell (John’s son) purchased a plot of land in Ann Street to accommodate the expanding business. He commissioned the renowned architects Thomas Jackson & Son to erect Riddel Warehouse seen by many at the time as one of the best examples in the land of Victorian industrial warehouse architecture. The national press referred to it as having no equal in terms of its purpose built structure; with it’s galleries around a central courtyard. This efficient design facilitated the steady growth of John Riddel & Sons. Locations on London Road and University Avenue, Belfast were part of Riddel expansion.

1896 – Edward Riddell (John’s son) diversified into household retail with the Riddel Arcade in Donegal Place, Belfast. The site was later sold to Brands and is now known as Queen’s Arcade.

1914 – John’s Daughters, renowned philanthropists, Eliza and Isabella Riddel were the generous benefactors of Riddel Hall accommodation for young ladies at Queen’s University, Belfast.