The business was started by Wilf Rowley in 1971. It was a one-man business and run from his garage at home. His wife, Margaret Rowley, later joined him in the business and was responsible for the administrative work. He had previously worked in the laboratory test equipment market for 10 years, first with Baird & Tatlock and then with B.Owen Jones. The knowledge which he aquired was carried over with him to Scientific Manufacturing. Wilf Rowley has since retired and handed the business over to his children.