About us

over 100 years of manufacturing coo-var excellence

Teal & Mackrill started manufacturing paints in the UK in 1908.

Teal & Mackrill Timeline:
Over a Century of Coating Innovation

Founded in 1908, Coo-Var began by supplying marine and industrial finishes to the shipbuilding and engineering industries in the UK. Over a century later, we’ve evolved into a trusted name in specialist and functional coatings, known for problem solving products across walls, floors, roofs, and metal surfaces.

Today, Coo-Var continues to operate with the same innovation and technical expertise that built our reputation. From anti-condensation and anti-graffiti coatings to anti-slip, anti-climb, and floor marking systems, our products are designed to protect, enhance, and perform where it matters most.

We remain committed to leading the coatings market with problem-solving solutions, reliable performance, and a customer-first approach. just as we have since 1908.

THE BEGINNING

1908
Founded in the UK

Teal & Mackrill begins manufacturing paints, initially serving the marine and industrial sectors, particularly shipbuilding. Hugh Graham, Arther Teal & Harold Mackrill started operating their partnership retailing and wholesaling paint in Gibson Street Hull.

1913
A Limited Company is Formed

All three founders officially register Teal & Mackrill as a Limited Company, operating from 30 Lockwood Street in Hull. The site becomes the heart of the business, employing teams of men to paint steam trawlers at the docks while also manufacturing the coatings on-site — with wages around 3.5p per hour.

1920s

1923
Expansion of Product Range

Petros, a bitumen-based product, is introduced to the range, responding to new demands in industrial applications.

1920
Teamac Brand Registered

The Teamac name is officially registered as a brand, marking a significant step in defining the company’s growing reputation for marine and protective coatings.

1929
Business Growth Sparks Expansion

Due to increasing demand, the company expands its premises. New brands Fishlack and Teamalak are registered, further strengthening the company's marine product offering.

1926
National Reach Begins

Teal & Mackrill begins to supply coatings further afield, with specialist brands like Lakola and Teamac gaining traction across the UK.

1930s

1939
Wartime Service

During World War II, Teal & Mackrill supplies coatings to the Royal Navy minesweeper fleet stationed in Grimsby, playing a role in supporting the war effort.offering.

1930s
Industrial Supply Scales Up

Teamac Distemper becomes widely available, and the scale of orders grows significantly. Notably, Hull Trawlers Supply Company Ltd places an order for 70 x 200-litre barrels, reflecting the company’s growing industrial footprint.

1940s

1945
New Retail Presence

W.R. Cook opens a paint shop in Darwen, Lancashire, laying the groundwork for future collaboration.

1941
Leadership Changes

Co-founder Arthur Teal steps down from the board at the age of 74. Harold Mackrill continues as Managing Director, ensuring leadership stability during wartime.

1948
Family Legacy Continues

B.H. Mackrill joins the company, representing the next generation of leadership. Around the same time, W.R. Cook's business becomes W.R. Cook & Co. Paints Ltd.

1950s

1955
Investment in R&D

The premises at Lockwood Street are expanded once more, with a new laboratory built, supporting product development and quality control.

1950s
Focus on Shipping Sector

Teal & Mackrill is a key supplier to shipping companies and trawler owners, solidifying its presence in the marine sector.

1960s

1962
A New Era of Leadership

B.H. Mackrill takes over running the business, continuing the family-led tradition with a focus on growth and innovation.

1964
Continued Expansion

The company expands its Lockwood Street site again, responding to increased demand and diversifying its operations.

1968
Strategic Acquisitions

Teal & Mackrill acquires W.R. Cook and the Coo-Var brand, laying the foundation for a new line of problem-solving and specialist
coatings.

1970s

1972
International Reach Grows

The company acquires the Buffalo and Jetolastic brands. Buffalo proves especially successful in Iraq, marking a new chapter in overseas trade.

1980s

1980s
Brand Development and Diversification

Both Coo-Var and Teamac ranges expand significantly:

Coo-Var becomes known for specialist coatings in both DIY and trade markets.
Teamac continues to lead in the marine sector, while also expanding into agricultural coatings for buildings and machinery.

1990s

1994
Product Innovation

Coo-Var Vandeline, an anti-climb paint, is registered as a trademarked product, reinforcing Coo-Var's position as a problem-solving coatings specialist.

1999
New Leadership

Benjamin Geoff Mackrill becomes Managing Director, representing the third generation of the Mackrill family to lead the company.

2000s

2015
Major Investment and Modernisation

Teal & Mackrill invests in a new purpose-built factory and laboratory, modernising production and enhancing R&D capabilities for both Teamac and Coo-Var brands.

2004
Increased Capacity

A new warehouse facility is acquired, providing additional storage and operational space alongside the original Lockwood Street factory.

1999 - Present
Rapid Brand Growth

The Coo-Var brand expands rapidly, driven by increasing demand for functional coatings in the trade, industrial, and public sectors.
With a focus on problem-solving, the range includes:

Anti-Condensation and Anti-Damp Paints
Specialist Floor Paints
Anti-Graffiti Coatings
Anti-Climb and Anti-Slip Finishes
Solar Reflective Paints
Specialist primers, varnishes, and high visibility paints

Today, Teal & Mackrill continues to lead in marine, agricultural, and specialist coatings, with both Teamac and Coo-Var recognised nationally and internationally for quality and innovation.