Darcy Group Celebrates 90 Years with Move to Employee Ownership

As one of Kent’s longest-standing industrial manufacturers still in continuous UK operation, the Darcy Group has announced its transition to employee ownership in the same year it marks an impressive 90 years in business.

The Darcy Group, headquartered in Kent and known across the UK and further afield for its environmental protection products and pollution control services, is now 100% employee-owned following the creation of an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). The move recognises the vital role staff have played in the Group’s growth while securing a stable, independent future for the business.

With facilities in Birkenhead and Leeds, and an international client base, the Group remains proudly rooted in the South East. It employs staff locally in Kent, with many long-serving team members having been with the company for decades - something that Managing Director Richard Proctor, a Kentish man himself, says was a key driver behind the change.

“We’re a company built on trust, teamwork, and innovation. As we looked ahead to our 90th year, it felt like the right moment to ensure that our values and culture are protected long into the future. Becoming an Employee Ownership Trust gives our people a genuine stake in the company’s direction and success.”

A Homegrown Business with a National Role

Founded in 1935, the original Darcy business began life manufacturing emulsifiers and wax emulsions before expanding into paints, fuel additives, and refractories. In the 1960s, whilst based in converted oast houses in East Malling, the company shifted its focus to pollution control and environmental protection - a decision that would shape its future and define its reputation.

Today, the Darcy Group is a UK leader in pollution management systems, spill response equipment, and environmental monitoring technologies. The Group serves a diverse range of sectors, from food and drink to construction, logistics, technology, utilities, and waste, working with household names, local authorities and government departments such as the Environment Agency and Ministry of Defence. Its oil dispersant spray systems are revered around the world with systems delivered to clients across Europe, Asia and Africa.

The Darcy Group’s directors are respected members of the industry. They serve on the boards of spill-related organisations, including Interspill and the UK and Ireland Spill Association, and CIRIA (a neutral, not-for-profit organisation that improves the construction industry through research, training and collaboration) helping to drive best practices and environmental protection in the UK.

 Why Employee Ownership?

Employee Ownership Trusts are becoming more popular among UK SMEs looking to futureproof their business without selling to outside investors. In Darcy’s case, the structure allows the business to remain independent, maintain its culture, and share its success directly with employees.

“This wasn’t just a financial decision,” said Proctor. “It was about culture and continuity. Our team has helped shape this business over decades. This move ensures they help shape its future too.”

Ownership through a trust means staff benefit collectively, helping to drive engagement, innovation and long-term growth. Crucially, it also supports a smooth succession process, protecting jobs and customer relationships while avoiding the upheaval often associated with mergers or acquisitions.

 Specialist Companies, Shared Mission

The Group includes four specialist brands working across different areas of environmental compliance and pollution management:

• Darcy Spillcare – the UK’s leading supplier of absorbents and spill response equipment

• Ayles Fernie – internationally recognised for marine and aerial oil dispersant spray systems

• Aquasentry – Europe’s largest producer of separator pollution monitoring systems

• Trident Industrial Marine – experts in oil spill containment and recovery at sea and in port environments.

Together, these businesses serve clients ranging from industrial facilities to infrastructure providers, supporting safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible operations.

Looking Ahead from a Position of Strength

As Darcy enters its tenth decade, the move to employee ownership is as much about legacy as it is about ambition. It protects the principles that have shaped the business while providing the structure needed to grow.

Proctor believes the change will enhance resilience, innovation and trust across the business.

“This is a natural next step in our journey. It gives our people a sense of ownership, not just in a legal sense, but in terms of purpose and pride. We’re building on a 90-year legacy with a renewed energy for what’s next.”

The company plans to continue investing in product development, operational infrastructure, and local employment. With its team now firmly at the helm, Darcy is poised to shape the next chapter of environmental protection from right here in the South East.

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