HISTORY

Our background

Cosalt is a derivative of the company's original title, The Great Grimsby Coal, Salt and Tanning Company.

The company was formed in 1873, as a co-operative of fishing vessel owners.
As the name suggests, the company was involved in servicing and supplying a variety of products and services for fleets, fishing, and other vessels. Goods were supplied on a value-for-money basis before the ships set sail.

The range of products allowed the fishermen to do their work efficiently and safely:

• Salt - to preserve the food and fish caught
• Tanning - to waterproof the sails and rope manufactured by Cosalt
• Coal - to fire the galleys
• Clothing - to keep the fishermen warm and dry.

The network of co-operatives and the reputation of the company grew as all types of vessels, visiting British ports, recognised the reliability and service that Cosalt had to offer. Through the years, the company has grown by the acquisition of specialist and established manufacturing businesses which have products compatible with Cosalt.

Since the company was floated on the stock exchange in 1971, the original businesses have been developed into marine and industrial safety centres. The group has also diversified into other markets, including:

• Workwear and Corporatewear and Schoolwear and Childrenswear
• Caravan holiday homes and leisure custom homes

Cosalt currently operates through two divisions: Leisure Products and Industrial Services.