Pioneers in problem solving
Whilst we are immensely proud of our heritage, we are so much more than a manufacturer. Our collaborative approach is what sets us apart from the rest.
By applying our technical knowledge and engineering expertise, we can work with you to identify ways to reduce costs & increase efficiencies across your business. When faced with seemingly insurmountable problems, our team will find the solutions you need, ensuring every project & product is delivered to the highest standards.
From the crafting of lead products for buildings to the precise engineering of components for the defence, energy, nuclear, industrial and healthcare sectors, Calder Lead has become synonymous with reliability and innovation, making us the trusted choice for industries where precision and safety are non-negotiable.
Let us help you solve your next challenge
Contact an expertA commitment to sustainability
Sustainability is not just a priority for us- it’s a promise. Every product we manufacture at Calder is crafted from 100% recycled lead, sourced predominantly from the UK and Ireland.
This approach allows us to minimise environmental impact without compromising on the exceptional reliability that our clients expect. By combining these sustainable practices with advanced engineering, we can ensure that our solutions meet the standards of today, without damaging our planet for future generations.
The history of Calder
For more than 200 years, the city of Chester has been at the heart of the UK’s lead industry, with Calder playing a pivotal role ever since.
Cookson’s glass and lead manufacturers formed
Born in Penrith in 1679, Isaac Cookson moved to Newcastle to further his career, forming a partnership with his brother, William, made up of a number of metal and glass manufacturers from the surrounding area.
Walkers, Fishwick & Co. partnership established in Newcastle
White lead manufacturers Walker, Fishwick & Co. were formed in Newcastle by Samuel Walker and Richard Fishwick, expanding their operations over time to include facilities in London, Chester, Derby, and Glasgow.
Chester shot tower constructed
Part of Chester’s historic leadworks, in 1799 Chester Shot Tower was constructed by Walkers’ partnership, beginning the city’s long association with lead manufacturing.
Employing what was known as the ‘drop process’, the tower was originally built to supply lead shot during the Napoleonic wars and, despite ceasing production in 2001, was at that time the the longest operating shot tower in the UK.
Walkers, Parker & Company formed
The company Walkers, Parker & Company was officially registered on 21 January 1889. This is the same company that holds the name of Calder Industrial Materials to this day.
Company renamed Cookson Industrial Materials Limited
After evolving through various mergers and name changes, the company formerly known as Walkers, Parker & Company officially became Cookson Industrial Materials in 1986.
Company named changed to Calder Industrial Materials Limited
Calder Industrial Materials – often simply referred to as ‘Calder Lead’ – is born, being officially renamed on 1st June 1994.
Calder begins work on UK’s nuclear submarines
In 2001, Calder Industrial Materials delivers is first products manufactured specifically for the development of the UK’s fleet of nuclear submarines. Our Chester HQ continues to produce these components to this day.
Calder moves to current premises off Sealand Road, Chester
Calder moves to its current premises just off Sealand Road in Chester, occupying a brand new factory combining state of the art plant and equipment with skilled production operatives.
Relationship formed with BAE Systems
In this year, Calder formed a relationship with major UK defence contractor, BAE Systems, and began manufacturing components needed in the manufacture of modern lead ammunition.
Lead supplied for Royal Albert Hall refurbishment
Calder supplies roof for the world-famous Royal Albert Hall as part of a major building development programme that started in 1995 and cost approximately £70 million.
Calder delivers first components to CERN
In 2010 Calder Industrial Materials made its first delivery of lead-based nuclear shielding components to the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, an intergovernmental organisation that operates the largest particle physics laboratory in the world.
Calder supplies Sellafield nuclear power station
CIM completes first large lead-filled Silo Emptying Plant (SEP) vessel ultimately destined for the Sellafield Magnox Swarf Storage Silo.
Calder sponsors Lead Sheet Training Academy
Calder Industrial Materials becomes a sponsor of the Lead Sheet Training Academy, an independent organisation at the forefront of training for those using lead and hard metals in the construction industry.
Calder Industrial Materials undergoes brand refresh
2025 saw Calder’s then 30+ year old brand undergo a dramatic refresh, marking a new chapter in the company’s history.
We’ve been working with Calder Lead for several years, and their commitment to quality and reliability has consistently exceeded our expectations.
Their products arrive on time, exactly as promised, and the level of customer service they provide is truly outstanding. Whenever we’ve needed support, their team has been responsive and proactive in finding solutions. Thanks to Calder Lead, our operations run more smoothly and efficiently. We’re grateful for the partnership and highly recommend them to anyone looking for a dependable, trustworthy supplier.
Sarah Lackenby
Operations Director, QRS PrecisionWho we work with
