South Wales–based industrial pipeline product distributor Flocon is continuing its journey of steady growth following the acquisition of Lamberts, the Norwich-based engineering supplier. The move marks a significant step in the company’s long-term strategy, as Craig Phillips, Director, recently outlined to Construction Industry News.
“The acquisition represents a natural progression for Flocon,” explains Craig. “The connection between ourselves and Lamberts dates back over a decade, thanks to our shared membership of REDG (the Regional Engineering Distribution Group). The existing owners were therefore already known to us, so when they were exploring exit options, the opportunity aligned perfectly with our expansion ambitions.”
While acquisitions can so often come with complications attached, the process was eased by Flocon’s own previous internal restructuring, following the current directors’ completion of a share buyback to take full ownership in early 2024.
Flocon was founded in 1990 by brothers Dave and Nigel Phillips, alongside Phil Davies. It has since evolved from a first-generation family business into a thriving second-generation operation, now led by Craig and fellow directors, Andrew Phillips and Matthew Davies. More than three decades on, the business remains firmly rooted in its founding principles while adapting to an increasingly competitive and dynamic industrial marketplace.
“The experience of the share buyback definitely gave us a solid understanding of the legal and commercial process,” highlights Craig. “There were more parties involved this time, but ultimately we achieved the right outcome at the right price.”
As the ink on the acquisition deal dried, the focus quickly switched to integrating Lamberts into Flocon’s operational model, starting with systems and processes.
A key priority has been the upgrade of Lamberts’ ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems and the move to align them with Flocon’s existing infrastructure. However, Craig emphasises that cultural alignment has been just as important as operational integration.
“Flocon has always been a family-run business with a strong emphasis on people and long-term growth. We have looked to bring that same mindset to Lamberts and support the team in developing the business.”
A key factor in easing the transition is the fact that the existing leadership at Lamberts remains in place, including long-serving Managing Director, Neill Ives, who has been with the company since 1989.
“Neill knows the business inside out,” says Craig. “We’re not there to disrupt—we’re there to invest, provide support and help unlock Lamberts’ potential.”
Such a positive outlook has helped allay any concerns from staff, understandable when any major change takes place. The early signs suggest a favourable reception, with the Norwich-based team having been keen to embrace change and engage with the new ownership.
As for the Flocon operation, the company currently employs around 34 staff and specialises in supplying the industrial sector with a broad range of over 12,000 products, working closely with end users across petrochemical, food and beverage, and marine industries. This focus has enabled the company to carve out a strong niche, differentiating itself from competitors operating primarily in the construction or HVAC markets.
Despite broader economic uncertainty, Flocon has continued to enjoy a strong trading period, with sustained growth over the past eight months. While May saw a slight slowdown, Craig remains optimistic about the year ahead. “The industrial market doesn’t always mirror the doom and gloom you see in the news headlines. There’s always demand, always opportunities, and we try to remain focused on that.”
As it has already demonstrated with its approach following the Lamberts acquisition, the cornerstone of Flocon’s success has been its commitment to staff and long-term investment. The company particularly prides itself on its low employee turnover rate, with a strong focus on creating a positive working environment across all elements of the business.
“We’ve always made sure we look after our people,” says Craig. “We like to think that’s why so many have stayed with us rather than seeking pastures new.”
This philosophy extends to reinvestment in facilities, equipment and logistics. Strong cash flow has enabled the business to continually upgrade vehicles, warehouse operations and systems, all without compromising financial stability.
The membership of REDG also continues to provide Flocon with a valuable competitive edge. Beyond collective purchasing power, the group has helped create a trusted environment for knowledge-sharing among independent distributors, enabling it to more than hold its own against the national operators.
“It’s not just about buying—it’s about collaboration. We can openly discuss challenges and opportunities without the risk of competing against each other, because we all have our own designated regions in which we operate.”
With such solid foundations in place, Flocon’s strategy over the next 12 months is focused on achieving further sustainable growth. Four new employees have already been added this year, including sales staff and a driver, reflecting the increasing demand for its services. Again, this progression will be supported by expanding its reach, increasing capacity, and maintaining the incremental approach that has served the company so well over the years.
For Lamberts, meanwhile, the priorities are slightly different, with a greater emphasis on stability, building confidence and improving integration. “If we can align the systems, support the team through the transition and gain momentum, we’ll be in a really strong position this time next year,” concludes Craig. “We’re really positive about the outlook for the future.”
It’s not difficult to see why. With such a strong blend of family values, strategic thinking and measured expansion, the acquisition of Lamberts has put Flocon into an even better position to build on its legacy, demonstrating that even in uncertain times, thoughtful growth and strong partnerships can deliver lasting success.
