Since our founding in 1980, Polypipe Building Products has been driven by a clear purpose: to support the construction industry through every challenge and opportunity.
What began as a bold vision in Doncaster has grown into one of the UK's most trusted names in plastic piping systems, with a portfolio that spans above and below ground drainage, plumbing, and low carbon heating solutions.
Over the past four decades, we’ve pioneered technologies, invested in sustainable manufacturing, and developed products that have become staples in homes across the country. From the original PolyPlumb fittings to our advanced underfloor heating systems, our history is built on a commitment to innovation, reliability, and progress.
Join us as we look back at the milestones that shaped our journey and look forward to the future we’re building together.
Over 40 Years of Polypipe Building Products
1980: Founding of Polypipe
Kevin McDonald, a plumber, and Geoff Harrison, an engineer, found Polypipe. The company is established in Doncaster and begins manufacturing plastic piping systems.
1985-2004: Acquisition of various businesses
Polypipe acquires a number of businesses aimed at broadening product and market offering. There is expansion into France and Italy as well as the formation of Polypipe Civils and Polypipe Ulster.
1998: Launch of PolyPlumb
PolyPlumb was the original push-fit plumbing fittings from Polypipe Building Products. An integrated flexible plumbing system incorporating polybutylene pipes and a complementary range of push-fit fittings for use in hot and cold water supply and central heating installations.
1999: IMI acquires Polypipe
The engineering group IMI acquired Polypipe for £337 million. At the time, Polypipe was a leading UK manufacturer of plastic pipes. The move allowed IMI, which had a strong metals-based business, to expand into plastics.
2005: Polypipe sold to Castle Harlan
IMI sold Polypipe to the New York-based private equity firm Castle Harlan. The sale was part of a restructuring by IMI to shed non-core businesses and focus on fluid controls and retail dispense.
2014: Polypipe listed on the London Stock Exchange
Polypipe was later taken over by a management buyout in 2007 before being listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2014.
2016: Polypipe win's the Queen's Award for Enterprise
The annual Queen’s Awards for Enterprise rewards excellence by businesses in a number of fields, with Polypipe hailed for its exceptional work in increasing export activity.
2019: Launch of PolySoil®
PolySoil® fittings are manufactured with one piece moulding technology so they have no moving parts, therefore improving the life and integrity of a soil system. The PolySoil® range also incorporates a new fixed Ring Lock Seal that won’t distort, slip or drop through allowing quick and easy installation and giving installers peace of mind in their projects.
2020: Launch of Overlay® Plus
The Overlay® Plus system is eight times lighter than the standard gypsum board (1.2kg compared to 10kg per board) and installation is also made easier as there is no need for any power tools – a Stanley knife is enough to cut the flooring to shape. There is less dust and mess produced during installation, and tiles can be fitted directly on top of the Overlay Plus boards.
2021: Genuit Group Plc
Polypipe Group plc changed it's name to Genuit Group plc. 'Polypipe' businesses began to diversify and establish separate brand identities.
2024: Launch of PolyPlumb® Enhanced
For 25 years PolyPlumb® has been the grey fitting of choice for professional installers. Now Enhanced and available in white for the first time, PolyPlumb® Enhanced is the only system you will ever need. With In-Cert® feedback technology you can ensure a secure fit, every single time. Push, Twist, Know.