British manufacturing leader recognised for redefining home mobility with design-led innovation
ANDOVER, HAMPSHIRE, 5 June 2025 – Sam Stannah, CEO of Uplifts has been named one of The Manufacturer Top 100 for 2025. The prestigious list, released as part of Smart Manufacturing Week, celebrates the most inspiring individuals in UK manufacturing, those who are shaping the future of the sector through creativity, leadership and bold thinking.
As a sixth-generation leader of the Stannah family business, founded in 1867 by Joseph Stannah, Sam combines deep brand heritage with a modern vision for what British manufacturing can be. Over the past 18 months, he has led a transformation in the home mobility sector through the creation and growth of Uplifts, a design-focused brand offering stylish, functional homelifts that challenge the traditional perception of mobility aids.
Uplifts homelifts are engineered to seamlessly integrate into modern homes, featuring contemporary design aesthetics that prioritise both form and function. Each homelift is designed with quiet operation, premium finishes, and space-efficient engineering that maximises accessibility without compromising on style. The homelifts are manufactured in a new sustainable factory based in Andover that was opened last year, underscoring the brand’s commitment to responsible production and local craftsmanship.
Sam’s innovative thinking was recognised earlier this year with an Innovation Award at the OT Show, and his work has captured national attention through recent media coverage profiling his leadership alongside his father, Jon Stannah.
“What sets Sam apart is his ability to innovate from within a well-established business,” said Joe Bush, Editor, The Manufacturer. “He embodies the future of British industry, honouring legacy while embracing disruption, and leading with empathy, insight and vision.”
Beyond product innovation, Sam’s hands-on leadership, regularly engaging with factory teams, customers, and global suppliers, has ensured that Uplifts maintains the quality and craftsmanship associated with the Stannah name while moving the business into bold new territory.
This recognition cements Sam’s place as a leading figure in UK manufacturing, and reflects the growing relevance of design-led, people-first innovation in addressing the challenges of an ageing population.
