In 1919 in London, Julian Cowan founded his family firm Cole & Mason. The company was initially founded as a giftware retailer, but quickly expanded and switched to selling household goods. Julian Cowan had an ambition to produce his own spice mills and in 1964 launched the first mill, which he named Capstan. A hand-turned wooden mill that quickly became popular and is still in production today.

The world's first acrylic mill

In 1975, Cole & Mason launched the world's first acrylic spice grinder. The inspiration to make an acrylic spice grinder came from the founder's son, David Cowan, during a dinner at a friend's house. He saw handles made from acrylic and was confident that it would be a good material to produce a spice grinder. The spice grinder became the 505 and since its launch has been an early classic that is still part of the Cole & Mason kitchen range and is still used today.

In 1986 Cole & Mason was awarded the Queen's Award for Export Achievement after becoming the UK's leading brand of salt and pepper mills. The company has enjoyed success internationally and nationally and continues to develop innovative spice mills even today.

All Cole & Mason products have a long life and high quality when it comes to performance and innovation. Today, Cole & Mason are experts in spice grinders and work tirelessly to ensure ease of use for home cooks and professionals alike.