As the hugely successful Monopoly Leeds Takeover draws to a close on September 1, LeedsBID has unveiled more Monopoly fun by commissioning a mini-documentary spotlighting Waddingtons, the Leeds-based company that brought the iconic game to life in the UK.
In collaboration with Chapter 81, the documentary features John Watson, former managing director of Waddingtons during the 1970s, who offers an insider’s view of the company that became Britain’s leading manufacturer of board games and playing cards.
Waddingtons first began producing the UK version of Monopoly in 1936, selecting the now-famous London properties that have become synonymous with the game, but Leeds was the birthplace of Waddingtons, a company that played a pivotal role in the gaming industry from the 1930s onward.
By producing Monopoly, Waddingtons cemented Leeds’ place in the history of one of the world’s most beloved board games. The Monopoly Leeds Takeover is not just a celebration of this iconic game but also a homage to the city’s vital contribution to its legacy.
In addition to John Watson, the film also features insights from two other prominent figures who shed light on Leeds’ historical and cultural significance:
Kitty Ross, curator of Leeds history at Leeds Museums and Galleries, provides a deep dive into the city’s past, exploring how Waddingtons became a cornerstone of Leeds’ industrial heritage.
Professor Robert Shail, director of research at Leeds Beckett University, offers an academic perspective on the broader cultural impact of Waddingtons and its role in shaping the leisure activities of generations.
Andrew Cooper, chief exec of LeedsBID said: “The Waddingtons and Monopoly story is an incredible part of the history of Leeds. We were delighted to be able to further enhance our Monopoly animation this summer with such a fascinating and compelling story and honoured to have former Waddingtons MD John Watson at the front of the campaign. Hearing stories of Churchill and the company and how they also missed out on Scrabble and Trivial Pursuit are only some of the memorable moments in this brilliant film.”
“Creating [the film] has been an incredible journey, and it’s an honour to start telling the story of Waddingtons and its profound connection to Leeds,” added Simon Fogal, founder of Chapter 81. “This project allowed us to delve into the city’s rich history and celebrate the legacy of a company that played a significant role in the lives of so many. We’re thrilled to share this piece of Leeds’ heritage with the world.”
As the Monopoly Leeds Takeover comes to a close, this documentary offers a final nod to the city’s enduring connection with the game, and invites audiences to explore the story behind the game that has captured the hearts of millions.
The Monopoly Leeds Takeover remains until September 1.
The film is available on YouTube:
