Who Owns Elementis Company?

Elementis Bundle

Get Full Bundle:

	5 FORCES	$15	$10
	BCG	$15	$10
	CANVAS	$15	$10
	4P's MIX	$15	$10
	PESTLE	$15	$10
	SWOT	$15	$10

TOTAL:

ADD TO CART

Who Owns Elementis plc?

Elementis plc, a global specialty chemicals company, is navigating a period of strategic realignment. The sale of its Talc business in May 2025 and the initiation of a share buyback program underscore a commitment to core, high-margin segments and enhancing shareholder value.

Understanding the ownership of Elementis plc provides insight into its strategic trajectory and governance. The company's history, dating back to 1844 as Harrisons & Crosfield, showcases a remarkable evolution from its origins as a tea merchant to its current status as a focused specialty chemicals provider.

Elementis plc is a publicly traded company, with its shares listed on the London Stock Exchange. As of July 2025, its ownership is diversified, comprising a significant portion held by institutional investors, alongside individual shareholders and the company's own management and board members. The strategic decisions, such as the divestment of its Talc business, are influenced by these ownership dynamics and the pursuit of enhanced profitability, as seen in its Elementis Porter's Five Forces Analysis.

Elementis plc's journey began on January 1, 1844, in Liverpool, with a partnership established by Daniel Harrison, Smith Harrison, and Joseph Crosfield. The Harrison brothers, already involved in the tea trade, joined forces with the young Joseph Crosfield, initially focusing on importing tea from China and coffee from South America.

Early Business Growth

By the 1860s, the firm had relocated its headquarters to London and had become the third-largest tea trader in the market.

Generational Transition

Ownership control transitioned to the next generation in the latter half of the 19th century, involving both Harrison and Crosfield family members.

Key Strategic Additions

The arrival of Arthur Lampard in 1881 and Heath Clark in 1885 marked a pivotal shift, moving the company from simple merchanting to tea blending and expanding its export operations.

Brand Development

These new partners were instrumental in developing the 'Nectar' brand, revolutionizing the business model.

Export Expansion

The company significantly expanded its export business from Ceylon Wharf, diversifying its revenue streams.

Limited Early Data

Specific details regarding initial equity splits and early ownership disputes are not extensively documented in available historical records.

The early days of the company were characterized by a focus on importing and trading commodities, primarily tea and coffee. The strategic decisions made by the Harrison and Crosfield families, and later by Arthur Lampard and Heath Clark, were crucial in transforming the business into a more integrated operation with its own brands and a significant international presence. Understanding the Target Market of Elementis provides context for these foundational shifts.

Founding Partnership

The initial partnership was formed by three individuals with complementary interests in the import trade.

• Daniel Harrison
• Smith Harrison
• Joseph Crosfield

Elementis SWOT Analysis

• Complete SWOT Breakdown
• Fully Customizable
• Editable in Excel & Word
• Professional Formatting
• Investor-Ready Format

GET TEMPLATE ➔

Elementis plc's journey from a tea merchant to a global specialty chemicals firm has significantly reshaped its ownership structure since its London Stock Exchange listing. The company adopted its current name in 1998, following a strategic pivot away from its plantation and general trading roots.

The current Elementis ownership landscape is dominated by institutional investors, holding a substantial 89.25% of the company's equities as of July 2025. This institutional backing highlights the significant influence these entities wield over the company's strategic direction and governance. The geographical distribution of Elementis shareholders shows a strong presence from the United Kingdom, accounting for 45.5% of holdings, followed by the United States with 29.3%.

Key Elementis Shareholders and Influence

Major institutional investors play a crucial role in Elementis's shareholder base, influencing its strategic decisions and pursuit of shareholder value.

• Franklin Mutual Advisers LLC is a significant holder with 9.893% of equities as of July 24, 2025.
• Fidelity International Ltd held 8.05% (47,183,074 shares) as of June 1, 2025.
• BlackRock, Inc. owned 7.36% (43,111,572 shares) as of the same date.
• Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC had 6.42% (37,624,713 shares).
• The Vanguard Group, Inc. held 5.21% (30,500,292 shares).
• Threadneedle Asset Management Ltd. reported 6.89% (40,714,595 shares).

Elementis has experienced pressure from activist shareholders, notably Gatemore Capital Management and Franklin Mutual Advisers, who have advocated for strategic reviews and enhanced shareholder value. These calls, occurring in November 2023 and April 2024 respectively, underscore the active engagement of key stakeholders in shaping the company's trajectory. The company's commitment to transparency and shareholder engagement is further detailed in its 2024 Annual Report, released in March 2025. Understanding the Brief History of Elementis provides context for its current ownership structure and the evolution of its business model.

Elementis PESTLE Analysis

• Covers All 6 PESTLE Categories
• No Research Needed – Save Hours of Work
• Built by Experts, Trusted by Consultants
• Instant Download, Ready to Use
• 100% Editable, Fully Customizable

GET TEMPLATE ➔

Elementis plc's Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the company's strategic direction and governance. As of July 2025, the board comprises executive and non-executive directors, with John O'Higgins serving as Chairman. Recent appointments aim to strengthen the board's expertise and address shareholder feedback.

The composition of the board is evolving to meet governance standards and shareholder expectations. Christopher Mills, CEO of Harwood Capital Management, was appointed as a non-independent Non-Executive Director on January 1, 2025. Funds managed by Harwood Capital held 22,500,000 shares as of December 24, 2024. Despite his appointment, 24.01% of votes were cast against his election at the 2025 AGM, citing 'overboarding concerns,' prompting the company to plan engagement with these shareholders. Paul Waterman stepped down as CEO no later than the April 2025 AGM, with Luc van Ravenstein taking over the role and joining the Board on April 29, 2025. Elementis is working towards a gender balance of 40% women on the board, aiming for 4 women and 6 men following the 2025 AGM, a slight shift from the 44.4% (four women, five men) recorded at the end of 2024. The company operates under a general one-share-one-vote principle, with the total number of voting rights at 584,847,814 as of July 21, 2025, reflecting recent share buybacks.

Elementis Shareholder Landscape

Understanding Elementis ownership involves looking at key stakeholders and voting power. The company's structure is influenced by significant institutional investors and board appointments.

• Harwood Capital Management, through its managed funds, is a notable shareholder with 22,500,000 shares as of December 24, 2024.
• Christopher Mills's appointment as a non-independent Non-Executive Director highlights the influence of major shareholders.
• The company's voting structure adheres to a one-share-one-vote principle.
• Total voting rights stood at 584,847,814 as of July 21, 2025.
• Recent board changes reflect a focus on governance and shareholder engagement, as detailed in the Marketing Strategy of Elementis.

Elementis Business Model Canvas

• Complete 9-Block Business Model Canvas
• Effortlessly Communicate Your Business Strategy
• Investor-Ready BMC Format
• 100% Editable and Customizable
• Clear and Structured Layout

GET TEMPLATE ➔

Recent developments at Elementis plc indicate a strategic shift aimed at portfolio optimization and shareholder value enhancement. The company has been actively managing its assets and capital structure, reflecting a dynamic approach to its ownership profile and market position.

The sale of the Talc business in May 2025 for $121 million, resulting in approximately $55 million in net cash proceeds, is a significant move to streamline operations. This divestment is projected to boost Elementis's adjusted operating profit margin by about 240 basis points, aiding in the achievement of its 2026 financial goals. Concurrently, the company initiated a $50 million share buyback program, demonstrating a commitment to returning value to its Elementis shareholders. As of July 21, 2025, a portion of this program has been executed through the purchase of 250,000 ordinary shares at an average price of 168.8524 pence per share. This reflects strong confidence in the company's financial stability and its Revenue Streams & Business Model of Elementis.

Portfolio Realignment

The divestment of the Talc business marks a strategic decision to focus on core growth areas. This move is expected to improve profitability and accelerate financial targets.

Shareholder Returns

The ongoing share buyback program underscores the company's dedication to enhancing shareholder value. This initiative signals confidence in Elementis's future performance.

Leadership and Activism

Leadership changes, including the CEO transition, occurred amidst pressure from activist investors. These shareholders have been advocating for strategic improvements and enhanced share price performance.

Financial Performance and Outlook

Elementis reported robust financial results for 2024, with revenue up 3% to $738 million and adjusted operating profit up 24% to $129 million. The company is targeting $90 million in incremental revenue growth by 2026 and $30 million in annual savings by 2025. Net debt was reduced to $157 million at the end of 2024, with a net debt to EBITDA ratio of 1.0x. Analysts maintain a 'Buy' consensus, with an average twelve-month price target of GBX 170.

Elementis Porter's Five Forces Analysis

• Covers All 5 Competitive Forces in Detail
• Structured for Consultants, Students, and Founders
• 100% Editable in Microsoft Word & Excel
• Instant Digital Download – Use Immediately
• Compatible with Mac & PC – Fully Unlocked

GET TEMPLATE ➔