Murex (company)
 | |
| Company type | Public |
|---|---|
| Industry | Iron |
| Founded | 1909 |
| Defunct | 1967 |
| Fate | Acquired |
| Successor | ESAB |
| Headquarters | Essex, UK |
| Products | Ferroalloys |
Murex Limited was a leading British provider of services to metallurgists, smelters and refiners, and welders. At its peak it was a member of the FT 30 index of leading stocks on the London Stock Exchange.
History
Murex was founded in 1909 as an ironfounder and ferroalloy manufacturer. The company moved to Rainham in Essex in 1917.[1]
In the 1930s Murex made large quantities of electrodes at their factory at Waltham Cross[2] and many ships including HMS Ark Royal and Queen Elizabeth 2 were welded using Murex equipment.[2]
The company's business was sustained by a high level of activity during World War II but when the war ended its profits showed a substantial reduction.[3]
It fell out of the FT 30 index in 1967 when its share price declined and it was replaced by Beechams.[4]
Welding equipment made by Murex continues to become available for sale from time to time.[5]
Demise of the business
Murex was acquired by BOC Group in 1967.[6] In the UK the rights to the Murex brand were sold to ESAB.[7]
