Croda

As Croda navigated the financial challenges of the late 1940s, the Board faced a pivotal decision: should the company scale back to its pre-war size or push forward with its expanding product portfolio? In 1949, Leslie Duckels outlined a strategy in his document, "The Diagnosis and the Remedy," aiming for steady growth through increased sales. Tragically, this was also the time when Croda's leader, A P Wood, passed away at the age of 46, leaving the company at a crossroads as it approached its 25th anniversary. #Croda100

Croda Beauty has launched a new range of PE-free biopolymers, designed to deliver exceptional haircare performance while meeting the growing demand for more sustainable beauty solutions. These biopolymers are plant-based, biodegradable, and free from synthetic polyethylene (PE), making them a perfect choice for environmentally conscious consumers. They offer outstanding benefits in conditioning, styling, and managing hair – all while reducing environmental impact. Discover how Croda Beauty is leading the way in sustainable innovation and helping brands deliver natural, effective haircare solutions: https://ow.ly/R3jj50U5WnO

Following the research led by Edgar Lower, Croda introduced innovative lanolin-based derivatives and surface-active agents on a commercial scale after World War II. Products like Hartolan, Crill, Crillex, and the Cithrol series became staples across various industries. One standout product, Polawax, proved so effective that it remains widely used in cosmetic preparations today. Despite these advancements, the late '40s brought financial challenges, forcing Croda's leadership to make crucial decisions about the company's future direction. #Croda100

When the war ended, Croda had transformed significantly. The company had expanded its product range and invested heavily in new equipment, but profits were capped by Excess Profits Tax Legislation, leaving Croda under-capitalised. Despite these challenges, the post-war period saw booming sales, prompting the need for a new sales office. In 1946, Croda acquired a large Georgian vicarage in Snaith, which became the company headquarters, known as ‘Croda House,’ until 1955. This historic building later housed the Croda Research Establishment, where groundbreaking research and development took place. #Croda100

Last week, a number of our 2024 graduates from across EMEA gathered in the Peak District, UK, for a week of personal development and experiential learning. Combining adventurous activities and exercises with reflective sessions and indoor theory, the course was designed to push boundaries, build skills & relationships and foster growth. Here’s what some of our graduates had to say about their experience: “This was a chance to push my limits and realise that the only thing stopping me is ME!” “The week has been so inspiring and insightful – I have learnt so much from Steve, the other graduates, and also learnt about myself.” “The residential week has given me a chance to push myself and try different roles, such as leadership, in a supportive environment.” “The week has been challenging and enjoyable. It has really helped me identify areas I want to develop.” We’re incredibly proud to invest in our future leaders, empowering them to grow both personally and professionally. Thank you to everyone involved in making this week so impactful!

During World War II, Croda played a crucial role in supporting the war by supplying essential products to the Armed Forces. From camouflage paint for aerodromes and army camps to millions of tins of dubbin protective for waterproofing soldiers' boots, Croda's factory operated day and night to meet government demand. We also produced camouflage face creams, gun cleaning oils, and even insect repellent, supplying over six million tins and bottles by the end of the war. These efforts not only contributed to the war effort but also laid the foundation for Croda's post-war growth. #Croda100

At Croda, the development of our leaders is a crucial part of how we deliver our Purpose of using Smart science to improve lives ™. It was a delight to welcome 13 of our leaders from the UK, Spain, France and the US to the Leading With Purpose (LWP) development course last week, which is built around our values of Responsible, Innovative and Together. Steve Laugher, Learning and Development Partner, said: "The insights that were shared and the learning that took place is a credit to all those who took part. Thanks for being a great LWP cohort and making the course a rich moment of learning and leadership development."

Edgar Lower's journey at Croda began in 1932, when he joined the team at just 14 years old. Starting with tasks like washing floors and opening mail, Edgar quickly took on a variety of roles, from making samples as an Assistant Chemist to helping with pipe fitting and even stenciling barrels of lanolin. Reflecting on his early days, Edgar recalled, "My first day at Croda will never be forgotten — I was terrified! But it was those early experiences that laid the foundation for my career." His dedication paid off as he rose through the ranks, eventually becoming Croda's first Technical Director in 1945, a position he held until his retirement in 1974. Edgar's efforts, particularly his work in sending out samples of 'White Swan Lanolin,' played a crucial role in establishing Croda Limited as a leader in the industry. His story is a testament to the impact of hard work, persistence, and seizing every opportunity to learn and contribute. #Croda100

In the early 1930s, Croda's success was driven by the initiative and persistence of key figures like Eric Cannon and Edgar Lower. Starting with a makeshift lab in a kitchen, they developed new lanolin-based products, including Hartolan — the "Heart of Lanolin." Despite financial constraints, A.P. Wood's strategic partnership with a Bradford wool mill led to the bulk production of Hartolan, showcasing Croda's early knack for innovation and collaboration. As the decade progressed, steady sales and expanding markets enabled Croda to navigate challenging economic conditions, laying a strong foundation for future growth and success. #Croda100

As the 1920s ended, Croda made a significant breakthrough with the development of 'Croda Fluid' — a rust preventive born out of a collaboration with the National Physical Laboratory. After the lab confirmed lanolin's superior anti-corrosive properties, we began manufacturing this revolutionary product. The initial production was simple yet effective, using a 30% solution of lanolin in white spirits. Croda Fluid became a staple in various engineering applications, including car plants and armament production, especially as the threat of war loomed in the early '30s. #Croda100 #Innovation