MEON Valley-based Huxley Golf is entering a new era in its 75-year history.

The specialist supplier and installer of all-weather surfaces for golf, is now owned by an employee ownership trust, following the Huxley family’s decision to provide for the long-term future of the business.

Since 2017 it has been based in Warnford and was previously on The Dean in Alresford.

The family has provided funding for the Employee Ownership Trust to purchase all of the shares of Huxley (UK) Ltd, which it holds on behalf of employees. The employees continue to run the company and will benefit from sharing the company’s profits.

Paul Chester and Jo Lyon will continue to manage the Huxley Golf business, both becoming directors. Hugh Fraser, who manages Scotland and the North East of England, has become a director of the trust company to represent Huxley staff. Paul Huxley will be staying on for the time being as a director of Huxley (UK) Ltd and a director of the trust company.

Paul Huxley said: “My father founded the Huxley company nearly 75 years ago in 1946 and it has been a very successful family-owned business ever since, largely because we’ve always been blessed with amazing staff. The creation of our employee ownership trust will ensure that, for many years ahead, the Huxley Golf business will retain its independence, culture and values built up over decades, as well as providing long term stability for staff, distributors, suppliers and customers.

“This new and exciting chapter in Huxley Golf’s growth could not have happened without the company being financially strong, with an excellent track record, enviable reputation and first-class team.

“I am grateful to our three new directors and to all staff for their support for this important step in the Huxley Golf journey.”

Several hundred British businesses are employee-owned, the best known being the John Lewis Partnership.