Polymarine’s journey began in 1976, when founders Peter and Dorothy Hodgkinson set out to create a specialist hub for inflatable boats and the products that keep them seaworthy, from their base in Chorley, Lancashire. By the mid 80s, the company had carved out a unique niche, supplying valves, components, and accessories to support the growing inflatable boat market.

Innovation accelerated in 1986, with the introduction of flexible paints, adhesives, and sealants — products that would become the backbone of Polymarine’s global reputation. Throughout the early 1990s, the brand strengthened its position in the marine industry, securing authorised dealer status for Avon inflatable boats and expanding distribution across Europe.

In 1995, the business was acquired by Richard Wilkinson and Mike Cappa, who relocated Polymarine to North Wales the following year. From their base at The Round House in Llandudno Junction, they expanded the inflatable care and repair range and began building a strong international distributor network — including a key partnership in Florida following a successful US trade show.

By the early 2000s, Polymarine’s export presence was growing rapidly. A strategic shift in 2007 saw the company exit boat and engine sales to focus exclusively on repair products, adhesives, paints, and cleaning solutions. Continued investment in service, stock availability, and product development helped drive international sales, which reached around 50% of total turnover by 2018.

In 2021, after more than two decades of leadership, Richard and Mike began planning their retirement. Long standing partner Anglo Adhesives & Services Ltd entered acquisition discussions in 2023, completing the purchase in 2024.

Now in 2026, two years since relocating to Anglo Adhesives’ manufacturing facilities in Melton Mowbray, Polymarine continues its mission: delivering high quality repair adhesives, cleaning products, paints, and accessories to customers worldwide, while expanding its product range and strengthening its presence across Europe.

From a small family business to a globally recognised specialist brand, Polymarine remains proudly committed to keeping the world’s inflatable craft in top condition — one repair at a time.