Leighs Paints, Kestor Street, Bolton

LEIGHS Paints may be a small family owned Bolton company but through its specialist fire retardant coatings it has acquired a global reputation.

And this year, the company, based in Kestor Street, plans a stylish celebration for its 150th anniversary since it was founded by brothers William and Joshua Leigh in 1860.

From a humble paint factory, Leighs Paints now makes 150 products which are used in the construction industry, oil rigs and on ships, including the former Royal Yacht Britannia,HMS Invincible and most recently the Cutty Sark.

The company’s global reputation rests on its specialist fire retardant or intumescent paint which expands rapidly on contact with fire, protecting the underlying metal structure.

Now the company, under the guidance of chairman Brian Leigh-Bramwell and its management team, is expanding into new markets.

In 2006, exports accounted for just eight per cent of Leighs business. Now it’s a quarter and turnover has increased 33 per cent during the same period.

As the company enters its 150th year, managers are looking to grow the export market organically knowing that their name is synonymous with quality and innovation.

Paul Clayton, marketing director at Leighs Paints, said: “We are very familiar with the Bolton and Bury Business Awards, and the prestige that they can bring to our business.

“As finalists for the much coveted title of Business of the Year we are particularly pleased for all our staff who make a real difference to our performance.

“We will be celebrating our 150th year in 2010 and we should also recognise the determined and courageous support of the Leigh-Bramwell family, who have been rewarded by our increasing success both in the UK and increasingly overseas.

“We are committed to developing our international business so that we can both defend our existing employment and look to create new jobs in the future.”