Albright & Wilson Ltd

Notes:

Traced origins to Arthur Albright, 1811-1900, who in 1851, with John and Edmund Sturge, established at Oldbury a factory to produce amorphous phosphorous in which he held a patent. Partnership dissolved 1855 and in 1856 joined by John E Wilson, b1834, trading as Albright & Wilson. Incorporated 1892. 1896 established at New York the Oldbury Electro Chemical Co to produce phosphorus in USA. c1900 expanded further into North America through acquisition of the Electric Reduction Co of Canada Ltd, of Buckingham, Canada.Through to 1914 enjoyed a monopoly position as a producer of phosphorous, especially for the match industry. End of 19th century the firm diversified into other areas, eg cyanide production, and after 1918 into inorganic phosphates especially those used in food production. Incorporated c1892. In 20th century opened works at Widnes. Floated as a public company 1948 when a major UK chemical producer. 1978 fully acquired by Tenneco of USA. Demerged as a public company 1995 and subsequently acquired by Rhodia of France