Who we are

Company size: 11-50

Our team has deep subject matter expertise in high-performance foam. Learn more about the people who will support you from brief through to delivery.

Meet the
Exec Team

Steve King
CEO, Founder

Steve King is the CEO and founder of Emkay Plastics Ltd, a leading global supplier of high-performance ROHACELL® and ROHACRYL® foams. Since establishing the company, Steve has driven its growth through innovation, quality, and a focus on sustainability.

Under his leadership, Emkay expanded from a single client into a key supplier with state-of-the-art facilities and a reputation for delivering tailored, high-performance material solutions. Steve’s vision continues to position Emkay at the forefront of advanced material solutions globally.

Paul Meek
Company Chairman

Paul Meek co-founded Emkay Plastics Ltd in 2000 with Steve King, establishing the company as a leading distributor of ROHACELL® foam in the UK and Eire. His strategic leadership has driven Emkay’s growth, including investing in the UK’s only state-of-the-art horizontal band saw to deliver precision-cut materials tailored to client needs.

With expertise in sales, logistics, and purchasing, Paul ensures seamless operations, supporting industries such as aerospace, automotive, and model making.

Tracey Jones
CCO

Tracey Jones, Chief Operating Officer at Emkay Plastics, ensures operational excellence, compliance, and efficiency across the business. She leads internal teams with training and guidance to meet high performance and quality expectations.

Tracey oversees production and is responsible for implementing policies and procedures that support Emkay’s strategic goals, ensuring products consistently meet the highest standards for clients worldwide.

Francesca Leone
Senior Accounts Manager

Francesca Leone is the Sales Manager at Emkay Plastics, responsible for driving business growth and building lasting relationships with clients across diverse industries. With a deep understanding of high-performance materials and a customer-focused approach, Francesca ensures clients receive tailored solutions that meet their unique needs.

She collaborates closely with the technical and operational teams to deliver seamless service and exceptional product quality. Her strategic insight and commitment to excellence help Emkay maintain its reputation as a trusted global partner.

Colin Breckons
Chief Technical QA Officer

As Chief Technical QA Officer, Colin Breckons ensures Emkay Plastics maintains its high precision and quality standards. He leads quality control processes, ensuring ISO compliance, and is a strong advocate for sustainability initiatives.

Through innovative and practical solutions, Colin supports Emkay’s environmental pledges and ensures clients receive superior products that meet stringent standards.

Chelsey Christensen
Works Controller and Logistics Specialist

Chelsey is an integral part of the Emkay team and has been with us for over six years. Chelsey plays a vital role in overseeing works control and logistics. Her primary focus is ensuring that every product meets client specifications and is delivered on time, reflecting the high standards We are known for.

Her proactive approach and in-depth understanding of production workflows enable Chelsey to effectively coordinate between teams, troubleshoot challenges, and maintain seamless operations. A true team player, she consistently upholds Emkay's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, making her an invaluable asset to both the company and its clients.

Meet the
talent

Telmo De Sousa
Key Account Executive
Geneva Day
Key Account Executive
Freya Baker
Sales Executive
Catarina Mota
Sales Executive
Karl Bamber
Sales Executive
Thomas Pegrum
Technical Support Operative
Karl Bolton
Production Supervisor
Lee Barnes
Production Supervisor
Kieran Womack
Production Operative
Josh Gray
Production Operative
Kevin Bussey
Production Operative
Matt Marshall
Production Operative

Company

Milestones

(14)
2025
2025

Second Horizontal Cutting Plant

Underscoring our ongoing commitment to enhancing our operational efficiency and strengthening our ability to supply materials Just in Time (JIT). This addition allows us to better meet the growing demands of our customers, ensuring quicker turnaround times and greater flexibility in our production process.

2024

Heat Treatment Plant Installed

This new addition enables the efficient processing of advanced materials, allowing us to offer heat treatment and Drying services in-house. Equipped with 30 data point probes, we can provide full transparency throughout the process, ensuring precise control and monitoring. With this advanced capability, we are proud to be your trusted partner for processing advanced materials, committed to delivering consistent, data-driven results every time.

2023

ROHACRYL™  Falcon Tenders

In a groundbreaking collaboration, we supplied ROHACRYL® foam for Falcon Tenders' latest project, marking its first-ever marine application. By integrating this advanced material into the carbon fibre roof design, the structure achieved an impressive 75% weight reduction compared to initial targets. This significant weight savings allowed for the incorporation of a glass roof, enhancing the vessel’s overall style. The roof component was expertly machined by Dash-CAE

2021

Further Expansion

As part of our continued growth and commitment to meeting increasing demand, we acquired an additional 11,000 sq ft unit. This move allowed us to further scale our production capabilities while maintaining our original premises, ensuring we continue to provide top-tier service without disruption. Composite House, Earl Road is our head office and main production plant.

2019

Expansion

In 2019, we undertook a significant expansion of its original unit on Mission Road, adding a 2,000-square-foot extension with a mezzanine. This expansion enhanced operational capacity, and provided additional space to support the company’s continued growth and innovation.

2018

Laser Cutting Plant

To meet the demands of our growing client base, we began offering 2D laser cutting , enabling us to offer large-format 2D geometry shape and kit cutting.  With multiple cutting machines now in operation, we are able to handle larger, more complex projects while maintaining high-quality standards. This expansion strengthens our ability to provide a robust Just in Time (JIT) service, allowing us to meet customer demands with faster turnaround times and improved flexibility.

2017

Sanding Plant Installed

Our advanced sanding plant enables us to refine Rohacell to exceptionally tight tolerances, ensuring unparalleled precision. With full control at fine increments—down to 1/100th of a millimeter—we guarantee that each component meets your exact specifications with minimal deviation. This level of accuracy is especially crucial for industries that depend on Rohacell for high-performance applications. By delivering superior consistency and precision, we reinforce our position as a leader in advanced composite machining.

2015

Formula Renault 3.5

As part of our expansion into motorsport, Emkay took a significant step by sponsoring rising racing talent Cameron Twynham in the Formula Renault 3.5 Series. This highly competitive championship, known as a stepping stone to Formula 1, showcased some of the most promising young drivers on the international stage. By aligning with Twynham, the company gained valuable exposure in the world of high-performance racing, strengthening its brand presence in the motorsport industry.

2015

Emkay's supports F1 in Schools

We are proud to support F1 in Schools, now known as STEM Racing, by providing materials, technical assistance, and producing models for student pit displays. This global initiative helps young minds develop skills in engineering, design, and aerodynamics through hands-on experience. Our involvement reinforces our commitment to innovation, education, and inspiring the next generation of talent in motorsport and STEM fields..

2013

First Expansion

As demand for Rohacell® grew, we took a significant step forward by relocating from Bowthorpe Industrial Estate to a 4,000 sq. ft. facility on Mission Road, Rackheath. This expansion allowed us to increase material stock levels, improve operational efficiency, and speed up dispatch times, ensuring faster service for our customers. The move marked a key milestone in our growth, laying the foundation for future developments and enhanced customer support.

2006

Supersonic Tier 1 Supplier

A landmark achievement in our journey, Emkay became a Tier 1 supplier for UK's supersonic commercial jet, solidifying our reputation for precision and excellence in aerospace manufacturing. This prestigious role required us to meet the highest industry standards, supplying critical components for a groundbreaking aircraft designed to redefine air travel. Our involvement in this pioneering project showcases our expertise, commitment to innovation, and ability to support next-generation aerospace advancements.

2003

Helium Ballon Record Attempt

Emkay played a key role in a ground-breaking UK helium balloon world record attempt by supplying materials for the construction of the gondola. Designed to withstand extreme conditions at high altitudes, our advanced materials contributed to the structural integrity and safety of the mission. This milestone showcased our expertise in providing innovative solutions for ambitious aerospace and scientific projects.

2003

Tier 1 Automotive Partnership

Emkay took a significant step into the high-performance automotive industry by supplying ROHACELL® foam to a Tier 1 UK manufacturer. This milestone marked our official entry into the road-going supercar market, providing advanced lightweight materials essential for aerodynamics and structural efficiency. Our involvement in this sector reinforced our reputation for delivering high-quality solutions to the most demanding engineering applications, further expanding our presence in the automotive world.

2000

Founded

Steven King and Paul Meek established Emkay Plastics Ltd, securing a 2,500 sq. ft. unit with the support of a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) loan. From the outset, the company demonstrated its capability and ambition, landing its first order from a prestigious UK racing team. This milestone set the foundation for Emkay’s future success, marking the beginning of a journey driven by innovation, quality, and a passion for high-performance materials.

Hiring
& Careers

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Work
with us

We’re on a mission to support companies at the cutting edge of engineering and innovation by providing premium grade materials and precision cutting with short lead times.

Partners

Trusted by industry leaders & innovators

Accreditations
and QA+

Built for
manufacturing
excellence

HQ
Emkay Plastics Ltd
Composite House,
25 Earl Road,
Rackheath Industrial Estate,
Rackheath,
Norwich
NR13 6NT
United Kingdom
Accreditation
Latest issue Date
Expiry Date

UKAS ISO 9001: We are ISO 9001 certified, ensuring that our business processes consistently deliver high-quality products and services. This certification demonstrates our dedication to meeting customer expectations and continuously improving our operations.

Download
04.11.2024
02.11.2027

UKAS ISO 14001: With ISO 14001 certification, we actively minimize our environmental impact. This standard reflects our commitment to sustainability by managing resources responsibly and reducing waste, helping to create a greener future.

Download
04.11.2024
02.11.2027

UKAS ISO 27001: We prioritise the security of your data with ISO 27001 certification. This globally recognised standard demonstrates that we have robust systems in place to protect sensitive information from risks, ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Download
08.11.2024
02.11.2027

JOSCAR: Joint Supply Chain Accreditation Register (JOSCAR) - covers company capability, accreditations’, information security, corporate social responsibility, financial history and ethical operations. This cross-sector collaborative solution reduces the time, cost, resources and duplication currently needed to provide information.

Download
Ongoing
19.12.2025

Composites UK: Composites UK is the leading trade association for the UK composites industry, supporting innovation, networking, and business growth. Membership offers benefits such as industry promotion, access to the UK’s only composites capabilities database, tailored business support, and guidance on reaching sustainability targets.

Ongoing
19.12.2025

FAQs

(13)

Ask a question

Below are the most common questions. For technical queries, please get in touch with us.

What resins are suitable for the bonding of ROHACELL®?

The choice of adhesive depends on the required temperature resistance and the size of the area to be bonded. However, most adhesives are suited for Rohacell. The only concern is that the adhesive doesn’t bond by evapourating a solvent. Rohacell foam is nearly impermeable and it would take very long for the adhesive to cure.– For small areas we recommend a 2 component Epoxy resin.– For larger areas we recommend an Epoxy resin film.

Why does ROHACELL® with a lower density have a higher thermoforming temperature, yet can only withstand lower temperatures?

For many grades, Evonik use the same copolymer recipe to form different densities. In this case Evonik determine the final foam density by foaming temperature: the higher the temperature, the more the blowing agent expands and the lower the density. Foaming temperature and thermoforming temperature are related to some extent, the higher the foaming temperature, the higher the thermoforming temperature.

If a heat treated product is taken out of the heat sealed bags and not stored correctly, does it lose the heat treatment properties over time?

Yes, it does. Imagine HT as an extreme drying process. If exposed to moisture from the environment, molecules will absorb moisture over time and lose the HT properties.

Can you heat treat IG-F, and if so, how long for and at what temperature? What properties would this hold?

For manufacturing procedures with curing temperatures between 125°C to 175°C, it is possible to heat treat IG-F. However, IG-F is intended for industrial applications that don’t require very high curing temperatures. Evonik have not heat treated this product and therefore have not produced a heat treated properties sheet.

What industries are heat treated products used by?

Primarily HT customers are in the aircraft industry. The main benefit is the higher creep resistance in the process, i.e. the foam can be cured at higher temperatures and pressures without collapsing. Curing it at 180°C requires HT (Manual aircraft resins have to be cured at 180°C).

If a machined component has been left for longer than expected, would ROHACELL® need to be dried out again?

As above, this depends on their curing process and also the relative surface of the part (the more surface per volume, the faster the foam will pick up moisture). The environmental conditions also play a role, with the foam picking up more moisture at higher relative humidity and temperature. Rohacell can generally be left for up to a day.

At what stage of the process should the drying out of ROHACELL® be performed, before or after machining a component?

Machining doesn’t necessarily require drying. But if Rohacell has to be dried, it should be dried pior to machining. Drying after machining can lead to a distortion of the shaped part due to internal stresses. The curing process conditions determine how long the foam can be exposed to environmental moisture before it shows excessive creep. Evonik recommend avoiding the foam absorbing moisture for more than a day. Ideally machined parts should be stored in moisture-proof bags.

What would cause a collapse in the ROHACELL® foam?

If it is at room temperature: excessive mechanical loads. If the compressive strength limits are surpassed, cell walls will start crushing and the integrity of the foam will be lost. If it is at high temperatures: moisture.

What are the best glues to bond ROHACELL® to ROHACELL® and ROHACELL® to other materials?

Evonik recommend a 2 component Epoxy resin for small joining surfaces and a thermoplastic or thermoset film adhesive for a larger area.

Why is necessary to dry ROHACELL®?

The creep compression resistance behaviour can be improved by drying ROHACELL®.

Specialist fabricators of high-performance foams, partnering with you for mission success.

"Emkay has been our go-to supplier for ROHACELL®, their friendly attitude and quick turnaround have helped support our business for over a decade. We have never had an issue with the quality of the products they supply and would always recommend their services."

Ben Newton, Kestrel Technology

“Over the years we have built a strong working relationship with Emkay Plastics, their sales and support staff always go above and beyond to meet our requirements. Working with us as our company has grown”.

Production Manager, Aerocat Ltd

“As a company we have always found Emkay to provide excellent service, vital to us as a small business, their fast turnaround of orders and faultless customer service is essential to our continued success. On a personal note, as a buyer, I very much appreciate Emkay’s speed, efficiency and personal friendliness”

Logistics Manager, Global Partnerships

“Emkay has been the preferred supplier of Rohacell Foams to ARRK Europe for many years, the level of services and product are second to none!”

Head of Composites, ARRK Europe

“We have always had excellent service from Emkay. As an independant sub-contract machinist of ROHACELL® we rely on their great service and next-day delivery - they never let us down”

Managing Director, Shape Machining LTD
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