Elmbridge celebrates 50th anniversary in style

A classic Ford Cortina, a surprise appearance by its 95-year-old Founder, and an afternoon of celebrations helped Gloucester-based Elmbridge mark its 50th anniversary in style.

Elmbridge paused operations for the afternoon to bring the whole team together to celebrate five decades in business, and the people who have helped shape its journey.

The celebrations began with a memorable entrance as Managing Director, Barrie Freeman, drove into the warehouse in an Elmbridge-branded 1976 Ford Cortina.

He was joined by a very special guest: Elmbridge Founder, David Freeman, the 95-year-old grandfather of current directors Barrie, Rory and Angus.

David’s presence was a reminder of where Elmbridge began and how the family business he founded has continued to grow under the leadership of his grandsons.

Fifty years in the making

Founded in a garage in Gloucester, the business has grown and evolved considerably over the past half-century.

As the company grew it moved to a purposed built warehouse at the Gloucester Docks and expanded into coatings and spray equipment.

Today, Elmbridge supplies coatings, spray equipment, spray shop facilities and consumables to customers across the UK, while retaining its headquarters in Gloucester.

Elmbridge has also broadened its expertise through acquisitions. Most recently, Minden Systems joined the business in January 2026, adding specialist dust extraction capability to its offering.

Through those changes, the anniversary provided an opportunity to recognise the team who have all played a part in Elmbridge’s story.

An afternoon to remember

The afternoon began with a short presentation and quiz looking back over Elmbridge’s first 50 years, sharing memories and testing the team’s knowledge of the business.

Every team member also received a commemorative gift to mark the occasion. The celebrations then continued with food, drinks, fairground games and crazy golf, giving colleagues time to relax and enjoy the milestone together

Barrie Freeman, Elmbridge Managing Director, said: “We’re really proud of how far Elmbridge has come.

“It was great to get everyone together to celebrate, and having our grandfather join us made it extra special.

“A big thank you to our team, customers and suppliers for helping us reach this milestone. We’re excited about what comes next.”

For Elmbridge, the afternoon was a chance to celebrate its beginnings, recognise the people behind its progress and look ahead to the next 50 years.

For more information about Elmbridge, visit: UK’s leading coatings solution provider – Elmbridge UK