Croda

Our growth continued through the 1990s, with Croda establishing a strong presence across Europe and Asia. Croda Nordica was founded to accelerate development in Scandinavia, followed by Croda Ibérica in Spain. We also set up sales operations in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary, anticipating rapid growth in Eastern Europe. Our expansion continued in Asia, with new sales offices in India, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Back in the UK, we opened a new £4.5 million cosmetic proteins plant at Ditton, Widnes, producing speciality ingredients from naturally derived raw materials like wheat, soya, silk, and almond for the personal care industry. We also acquired of Westbrook Lanolin solidifying our position as the world’s leading supplier of lanolin. #Croda100

At Croda, we have a long history of exploring alternative crops for producing new vegetable oils. Our technical teams in Hull and Leek, under the leadership of R&T Director Keith Coupland, focused on harnessing our expertise in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids play a vital role in health, with omega-6 lipids helping the body produce powerful anti-inflammatory substances called prostaglandins. One of the most impactful outcomes of this research was the development of Lorenzo’s Oil, a lipid derived from rapeseed oil used to treat Lorenzo Odone, a young boy who suffered from adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), a rare and debilitating disease. This inspiring story even became the subject of a blockbuster Hollywood film starring Nick Nolte and Susan Sarandon. What makes this tale even more remarkable is that Croda chemist Don Suddaby, who delayed his retirement to create Lorenzo’s Oil, was cast in the film as himself! "I told him I could never change the way I speak," Don recalled, “but he said that’s just what he wanted for the movie!” This journey exemplifies our dedication to innovation, health, and improving difference in peoples’ lives. #Croda100

We’d like to thank all our employees for their hard work and dedication throughout 2024. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

In October 1990, we celebrated the completion of our largest investment to date – the redevelopment of the Rawcliffe Bridge site. This transformation involved a complete rebuild of our chemical plant while maintaining production, introducing state-of-the-art technology that significantly reduced raw material usage and energy consumption. This investment was not only about infrastructure; it was about investing in our people, the true heart of Croda #Croda100

As the 1990s approached, Croda set a clear direction: to concentrate resources on what we do best – speciality chemicals derived from natural oils and fats. This commitment to minimising environmental impact became the foundation of our strategy. By reformulating products to replace harmful organic solvents with water, we positioned ourselves as leaders in safer, cleaner, and more sustainable solutions. #Croda100

Colin Prosser, Managing Director, Croda GmbH, 1980-1997 “During my time in Germany and in Europe, my memories encapsulate that special ‘spirit’ of our employees. Like every company, we had our fair share of problems, but it is how you pull together and react to them that matters." #Croda100

The 1980s marked a significant transition for Croda, especially in leadership. On 1 April 1985, Sir Frederick Wood passed the baton to Mike Cannon, who had successfully led Croda Inc in the USA, turning it into one of the group’s fastest-growing divisions. There was a meaningful connection, as both their fathers had worked together at Croda’s first factory in Rawcliffe Bridge. In 1986, Sir Frederick retired as Chairman, and Mike Cannon took the role on in 1987. Dr Keith Hopkins then succeeded Mike Cannon as Group Chief Executive, bringing a strong academic background and valuable experience from Unilever. As the decade wrapped up, Mike Cannon announced his retirement as Chairman, and Michael Valentine took over, having been a crucial advisor during key acquisitions and in Croda’s defence against Burmah’s takeover bid. Together, this new leadership team was ready to tackle the challenges ahead. #Croda100

As the 1980s came to a close, Croda shifted its focus back to where it all began with a significant £9 million capital investment in modernising and reconstructing our first-ever factory at Rawcliffe Bridge. This project would transform nearly the entire site, including seven acres of adjoining land. But this investment wasn’t just about plant and equipment—it was an investment in our people. The beating heart of Croda has always been our dedicated employees, where strong family traditions and a deep community spirit define the workforce. People like Hubert Young, a former works manager, who famously reflected on those early years saying, “We had nowt – and shared it!” This commitment to both innovation and people is what has always driven Croda forward, staying true to our roots while embracing the future. #Croda100

As consumer demand for naturally derived products grew, particularly in the US, Croda’s long-standing commitment to sustainability was perfectly aligned. In 1985, Croda became the first company to develop a wheat-based protein ingredient for cosmetics, revolutionising the industry by offering a renewable, plant-based alternative to animal-derived products. These vegetable-based derivatives provided the same beneficial characteristics for hair and skin care, allowing manufacturers to market their products as truly "natural." In addition to wheat-based proteins, Croda’s innovation extended to essential fatty acids. Years earlier, Croda had developed technology to extract omega-3 lipids from fish oil, known for their beneficial effects on the brain and skin. Similarly, omega-6 lipids from vegetable oils like borage and evening primrose oil became key ingredients in cosmetics and dietary supplements to treat conditions like atopic eczema. Using super refining technology developed by our team in Japan, Croda Universal brought these lipid derivatives to market under the Incromega™ brand. The innovation didn’t stop there—Croda formed a joint venture with CK Oil Crops Ltd to grow crops that would become the lipids of the future. #Croda100

A defining feature of Croda’s resilience and success over the years has been its innovative approach to connecting with stakeholders — starting with its shareholders. In the early 1980s, Croda revolutionised its Annual General Meetings, transforming them from traditional hotel-based events into experiences at our sites. These events became so much more than meetings, they were opportunities to showcase Croda in action. Shareholders, employees, customers, suppliers, schoolchildren, and local communities were invited to witness Croda’s chemistry up close. Exhibitions, factory and laboratory tours, and open days provided a firsthand look at our products, processes, and the incredible people making it all happen. At the 1986 Cowick Hall event, shareholders even received a copy of the day’s Financial Times, which included a full-page Croda advert, illustrating how our ingredients enhance countless end products worldwide. From the lab to the boardroom, we’ve always believed in transparency, community, and the power of shared success. #Croda100