Adelco turns 50

Adelco, a global leader in printing and drying machines, is celebrating 50 years of trading.

This is not just a corporate anniversary; it is an anniversary of a family that grew strong defying the odds.

Over the last half-century, Adelco has survived recessions, wars, pandemics, and technology transformations that could have been fatal to some companies, but Adelco managed to thrive and grow. The next 50 will likely be even more challenging, this milestone can be used to put a stake in the ground for what Adelco is prepared for, and what comes next.

A brief history

Starting from humble beginnings Adelco has grown from a small UK-based manufacturer to a global brand with partners in more than 36 countries, with a large manufacturing facility based in Asia, and a work force of over 150 staff.

Alan Smith, along with two other partners, Des and Laurie founded the company in 1972, based in Farnham, Surrey. Using their initials, they named the company Adelco. The company has developed over the years, initially manufacturing screens, art and design for electronic components, circuit boards and cosmetic toiletry containers.

By the late 70s Adelco had moved to a larger premises, and was producing screens for electronic, cosmetic and textile applications. In 1979 Adelco started manufacturing screen printing and drying systems and importing textile machines into the UK and then Europe. This was the turning point for Adelco, to become established in the textile industry.

Adelco moved to Bordon, Hampshire in 1990, located in three industrial units producing textile printing machinery. With Alan’s two sons Leigh and Mark onboard with experience in engineering and sales, the company grow steadily.

In 2006 Adelco moved its manufacturing plant to China, and with its inhouse original designs and inspired engineering in both drying and printing solutions, the team expanded their production by threefold.

In 2020 Adelco rebranded the company, reflecting the company’s evolution into a global manufacturing business.

Leigh Smith, CEO of Adelco, said: “Over the last 50 years Adelco have grown to be a well-known and respected brand. Our decision to launch our new logo and brand identity better reflects our market leading position and our technically advanced offerings to the market.”

The future

With three new dryer innovations launching at FESPA this year, Adelco continues to push the boundaries of technology and engineering. The team will continue to deliver relevant and ground-breaking screen printing and drying technology with the customer at the heart of all its machines from design to installation.