50 years ago, based out of a modest garden shed on the outskirts of Bristol, a young entrepreneur named Alan Nunn spent his days visiting customers across the Bristol area, supplying abrasives and adhesives from the back of his vehicle. What began as a one-man operation has since evolved into a leading name in specialist adhesives, yet the company’s spirit remains remarkably true to its origins.
A business forged through adaptation
Throughout the late 20th century, Alan steered the business, then known as Alansons, through steady expansion, moving into new premises as demand grew. The turn of the millennium brought a pivotal moment.
In 2000, the company refined its focus exclusively to adhesives, recognising a growing opportunity to specialise and innovate within that field. The appetite for innovation soon led to the development of the Gekko brand in 2011, offering forward-thinking adhesive systems for the flooring sector.
Gekko quickly gained traction, ultimately attracting interest from Quin Global, who acquired the brand in 2019. This transition prompted a reimagining of the business, and in 2020 Alansons became Ureka Global, reflecting a clearer purpose and broader ambition.
New horizons
Growth brought its own challenges, not least the physical limits of the Brislington site in Bristol. By 2023, Ureka Global had outgrown its long-standing home, prompting a significant investment in a purpose-built facility just outside Newport in South Wales.
This move represented far more than a change of address; it set the foundation for future capacity, efficiency, and innovation. That same year, Ureka Global acquired the historic Cascamite brand, an iconic name in woodworking adhesives. The acquisition opened the door to the builders’ merchant sector and marked another decisive step in strengthening the company’s market presence. Since then, Cascamite has flourished under Ureka’s stewardship, benefiting from renewed focus, expanded ranges, and the company’s technical expertise.
A family legacy
While the facilities, markets, and technologies have evolved, Ureka Global’s identity remains deeply rooted in family values and collective ambition. Alan’s sons, Alex, Richard, and Dan, joined the business after college, each bringing fresh energy to support their father and help shape the next stages of growth.
Today, they continue to play integral leadership roles, honouring the legacy of a business built on perseverance and partnership.
At the heart of Ureka Global lies its people. The team’s dedication to customers, providing technical guidance, dependable support, and world-class service, has always set the company apart. These values are not slogans. They are the lived principles of a business that believes in being bold, leading change, and winning together.
“When I started the business, I was simply trying to do right by my customers and give them products they could rely on,” says Alan Nunn. “Everything that’s followed has come from listening, adapting, and never standing still. Seeing Ureka Global reach 50 years tells me we got that part right, and that the future is in very capable hands.”
Looking to the future
As Ureka Global marks its 50th anniversary, the company stands not only on a rich history but also at the forefront of meaningful industry innovation. Recent breakthroughs include the Cascamite Industrial Range, delivering zero indoor air emissions, and Cascapol, a non-foaming wood adhesive specifically developed for Accoya®.
These solutions address longstanding challenges in the market, and there is no doubt that more is on the horizon.
This milestone is both a celebration and a springboard. Half a century on from that garden shed in 1975, Ureka Global remains driven by curiosity, craftsmanship, and a commitment to help its customers achieve exceptional results.
“Reaching 50 years is a significant milestone for Ureka Global,” concludes Managing Director, Alex Nunn. “It marks the dedication of our team, the loyalty of our customers, and the vision set in motion by my father all those years ago.
As we look ahead, our focus remains firmly on innovation, service, and building strong partnerships. The next chapter promises to be every bit as exciting as the journey so far.”
