The maker of the iconic wax jacket was set up 120 years ago to produce hardwearing wet weather clothing for country workers and fishermen. The Tyne and Wear company’s jackets are now worn by everyone from royals to pop stars, and it has a range of 2,000 clothing and lifestyle products. The fourth-generation family firm is chaired by Dame Margaret Barbour, 74, and is active in 40 countries. Its managing director is Stephen Buck, 56.