Since our founding in 1980, Polypipe Building Products has been driven by a clear purpose: to support the UK construction industry through every challenge and opportunity.
What began as a bold vision in Doncaster has grown into one of the most trusted names in plastic piping systems, with a portfolio spanning drainage, plumbing and low-carbon heating solutions.
Over 40 Years of Polypipe Building Products
1980: The Founding of Polypipe
Polypipe was founded in Doncaster by plumber Kevin McDonald and engineer Geoff Harrison. The company began manufacturing plastic piping systems, bringing practical installation knowledge to technical product design.
1985 to 2004: Market Expansion and Acquisition
During this period, the business expanded through the acquisition of various companies aimed at broadening its product and market offering. This era saw the formation of Polypipe Civils and expansion into European markets.
1998: Launch of PolyPlumb®
PolyPlumb® was launched as the original push-fit plumbing fitting range from Polypipe Building Products. This integrated flexible plumbing system, incorporating polybutylene pipes, became a staple for 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: London Stock Exchange Listing
Following a management buyout in 2007, the company reached a major corporate milestone by being listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2014 (Photo by Oliver Hale on Unsplash).
2016: The Queen's Award for Enterprise
Polypipe was honoured with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise. This prestigious award recognised our excellence in increasing export activity and our contribution to British manufacturing.
2019: Introduction of PolySoil®
The PolySoil® range was launched, featuring one-piece moulding technology. This innovation improved the integrity of soil systems by eliminating moving parts and introducing the fixed Ring Lock Seal for faster, more secure installation.
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: Transition to Genuit Group plc
Polypipe Group plc changed its name to Genuit Group plc. This transition allowed the various businesses, including Polypipe Building Products, to further establish their specialist brand identities while remaining part of a larger, sustainable infrastructure group.
2024: Launch of PolyPlumb® Enhanced
Marking 25 years of push-fit success, PolyPlumb® Enhanced was launched. This range introduced In-Cert® feedback technology and a new white aesthetic, providing professional installers with a secure, visual and audible "Push, Twist, Know" connection.