The company was founded in 1985 in Yorkshire by Sandra Penfold and Julia Wilson, two former teachers who discovered market research interviewing after starting their families. What started out in the dining room of Sandra's home quickly outgrew its modest beginnings, and Swift soon moved into dedicated premises in Tadcaster.
Through the 1980s and 90s, the business expanded rapidly, relocating within both Tadcaster and Sherburn in Elmet, before finding its current home at Concept House in the market town of Wetherby. As the team and its phone unit continued to grow, Swift acquired Sandbeck House, a second building located just across the road.
In 2008, Julia retired from the business and it became family-run as Sandra and her husband, Martin, took the reins. Over the decades, Swift has worked across many sectors, but it is in fragrance and sensory research that the company has found its greatest passion and expertise. This focus has shaped Swift's direction in recent times and resulted in the transformation of Sandbeck House into a dedicated Sensory Centre, complete with a laundry lab, vaping suite, and specialist testing booths.
On 23rd November 2023, Sandra and Martin transferred ownership the business to its employees - placing Swift's future in the hands of the people who helped build it.
Sandra Penfold sadly passed away in February 2026. Despite being in her late seventies, she was still working as an active director of Swift right up until the end. Sandra's vision and determination made Swift what it is today, and her legacy will be carried forward by the team she inspired.
