29/07/2026
Celebrating 50 Years
In July 1976, John Humber purchased an existing business from Reg Gilpin and established what became Thriftway Furniture.
Initially, the business specialised in domestic furniture, floor coverings and window furnishings. Over the years, it continued to grow and evolve. Between 1990 and 1993, the second generation of the Humber family joined the company, helping to develop three distinct divisions: window furnishings retail, window furnishings manufacturing and office furniture.
The manufacturing division evolved into Norfolk Blinds, which remains in the Humber family today. The retail window furnishings business was later sold to Aspire Curtains successfully owned by Andrea Morley, while the office furniture division continued to expand and eventually became Ascot Commercial.
From its beginnings as a small retail business in Cattley Street, Burnie, Ascot Commercial has grown into a leading office design and fit-out company with offices across three states. Today, approximately 90% of our business comes from outside Tasmania.
Now, as we celebrate 50 years, three members of the third generation are part of the Ascot Commercial management team, continuing the family’s tradition and helping guide the business into the future. See less