1930s – The beginnings: Thermolux
Tom Clokey founded Thermolux, producing glass fibre light diffusers from broken window glass. This early manufacturing enterprise laid the foundations for the specialist fibre businesses that followed.
Late 1960s to early 1970s – A new home in Lancaster
Mark and Tim Clokey relocated the business to Lancaster, operating as Lancaster Glass Fibre. Initially focused on glass fibre products, the company developed continuous A-glass monofilament fibre for automotive silencers and steam vent applications.
1980s – Expansion into stone mineral wool
The business expanded into stone mineral wool, manufacturing Lancaster Gas Turbine Basalt materials and progressing into pillow module applications during the decade. E-glass chopped filament wool was also developed, broadening the company’s technical capabilities.
Under the Clokey brothers – International growth and diversification
The business established an international presence across England, Wales, Australia, the United States and the Netherlands. It developed substantial activity in automotive components, filtration, industrial applications and construction, including fire protection.
Its manufacturing capabilities expanded to include needle-punched, sewn, moulded and woven products, supporting an increasingly diverse customer base.
1990s – Further materials development
The product range continued to evolve through E-glass needlemat, silica materials and expanded continuous glass roving. Boron-free glass fibres were introduced to provide higher-temperature capability, supporting applications in European and Japanese markets.
1996 to early 2000s – New ownership and a broader identity
In 1996, the company was acquired by a private equity group. Further development followed, and the business subsequently became Lancaster Fibre Technology, reflecting its wider range of products, manufacturing processes and markets.
Subsequent years – Sadiq family ownership and restructuring
The company was later acquired by the Sadiq family, joining a diversified portfolio spanning supermarket chains, confectionery manufacturing, hotels and residential property in the United States.
Against a backdrop of market uncertainty and economic downturn, the family restructured its interests. The Lancaster group was divided into five separate specialist businesses. The principal automotive glass fibre business was sold to Owens Corning, while the stone mineral wool business remained under Sadiq family ownership.
2000s – MC Resources established
MC Resources was formed as a specialist converter of glass fibre products. Led by Andrew Clokey, son of one of the original Lancaster owners, it continued the family’s involvement in the industry.
During this decade, product developments included pre-moulded inserts made from expanded continuous E-glass or boron-free glass fibres, alongside further high-performance gas turbine pillow designs.
2008 onwards – Leadership and a return to family ownership
Against the backdrop of the 2008 financial crisis, Andrew Clokey was appointed Managing Director of Lancaster GTB Systems, the rock mineral fibre business originating from the former Lancaster group.
When the Sadiq family subsequently decided to leave the sector, Andrew Clokey took over the business, returning this part of the Lancaster heritage to Clokey family ownership.
2010s – Rebuilding and specialist development
Lancaster Insulation was formed in 2010. Over the following years, Andrew Clokey progressively reacquired approximately 90% of the original group’s assets and continued to grow the business joined along the way by Ben Whittaker as Operations Director on the most recent chapter.
Technical development included specialist turbine insulation modules for GE, Siemens and Rolls-Royce applications, supported by computational fluid dynamics and thermal analysis.
2020s – Manufacturing investment and a new direction
The business increased its UK manufacturing presence, with developments in wet-end technology and new basalt mineral wool plant capabilities.
2025 – STONESHIELD Fire Protection launched
STONESHIELD Fire Protection was launched with a dedicated focus on passive fire protection products, building on the business’s established materials and manufacturing expertise.
Today – Continuing the Lancaster heritage
Under Andrew Clokey’s leadership, the business continues to grow through MC Resources, Lancaster Insulation and STONESHIELD Fire Protection.
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