Manufacturer celebrates 50 years of innovation
Apollo, a Tamworth-based liquid adhesive, sealant, coating and primer manufacturer, is celebrating 50 years of innovation this year.
With a name inspired by the cutting-edge NASA space programme, Apollo was launched in 1972 by Robert Saunders and the business grew and remained under the Saunders family 's guidance for 50 years.
The company is now under the ownership of H.B. Fuller.
From day one, Apollo was passionate about addressing customer and market needs. One of Apollo 's first innovations was moisture-curing adhesives. With excellent aging and weathering properties, they are still popular within industrial and construction markets today.
During the 80's, Apollo developed high solid adhesives, which assisted with helping customers to improve efficiency/reduce waste. Apollo also became the first adhesive manufacturer to meet ISO 9001 quality standards.
Throughout the 90's, as solvent concerns increased, Apollo pioneered a sprayable solvent-free two-part PU adhesive. They also launched a polyurethane coating, creating the way for high-friction intersections, pedestrian crossings and roundabouts.
In the early 2000's, Apollo added polyurethane waterproofing coatings to its portfolio for the roofing industry and added their award-winning Fastack lamination adhesive to their range. They also became one of the first chemical manufacturers to gain the ISO 14001 accreditation.
In the last 20 years, Apollo have revolutionised adhesive application techniques in the flat roofing market and are the first adhesive manufacturer with the expertise to create a moisture-curing polyurethane in a canister. They were also the first to conduct independent dynamic wind uplift tests for roofing products and gain the revised ISO 9001, putting customer experience at their heart.
Now, all at Apollo are looking forward to the future as part of the H.B. Fuller family.
Ian Cornelius (pictured), vice president Apollo & EIMEA Synergy, said: “Apollo is excited to be celebrating 50 years of innovation. The development of innovative products through customer collaboration, as well as delivering excellent customer experience, has always been at the heart of what Apollo does.
“Now as part of the global and well-respected manufacturer, H.B. Fuller, we excitedly look to the future together. Our aim is to allow customers to thrive in a challenging and changing environment through fostering relationships and developing innovative product and service solutions. ”