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Andrew Ritchie, founder inventor of the Brompton bicycle, has been awarded the Prince Philip Designers Prize, as recognition of a lifetime contribution to design.
Andrew headed a strong field of nominees, including Peter Saville, husband and wife team Jay Smith and Howard Milton, David Adjaye, Hussein Chalayan MBE, Wayne Hemingway MBE, and Eric Parry. Two special commendations were also awarded by the judges – to Michael Peters OBE and to Jeff Banks CBE.
Run by the Design Council, the prize exists to draw attention to the importance of good design and to recognise the work of the most talented designers.
Speaking after the award, Andrew said he was “not finished yet”; although he stepped down as managing director in April 2008, he continues to work on the design and quality of the Brompton in his capacity as Technical Director.
Will Butler-Adams, his successor as MD, said: "This award is well-deserved recognition for a man who has dedicated his life to the fine perfection of the folding bicycle. Andrew never gave up on his belief that he had conceived a product that would add real value to people’s lives; years of knock-backs, refusals and false starts never dented his determination to make the Brompton a reality.
"Over thirty years on from the first prototypes, and with over 175,000 Bromptons being enjoyed all over the world, he has now received this tremendous recognition for his life’s work. But the philosophy he instilled in the business continues – we remain committed to British manufacturing and to improving on the Brompton’s ingenious design year-on-year."
