Who Is Imerys

The company operates in 46 countries with more than 200 industrial sites. In the UK, Imerys operates more than 30 sites, including five open pit mines and a technology centre in Par, Cornwall. 

Imerys historical mining experience

Imerys has its roots in mining and metallurgy. Under the name Imetal until 1999, it brought together the activities of two mining companies: Minière et Métallurgique de Peñarroya (specialising in lead, zinc, germanium and indium) and Société le Nickel (mining in New Caledonia). At the turn of the millennium, the group changed its name to Imerys and focused on industrial minerals, becoming the world leader in just fifteen years. 

Also at this time - in 1999 - Imerys bought English China Clay (ECC) and took over kaolin mining in the southwest. It now owns over 5,500 hectares of land across the UK but primarily in Cornwall, Devon and Dorset. 

Throughout its history, Imerys has always retained its geological and mining expertise. The rare resources the company mines require high-level geological expertise to identify, secure and develop them safely, sustainably and economically over the long term.

In this context, Imerys is active in several organisations working to develop a more sustainable, responsible and innovative industry. In the UK, Imerys is a member of MPA, CMA, CCMGA and CCMM.

At European level, Imerys, as a member of ESMA, an association that enables its members to cooperate on scientific and legislative issues, is part of the Industrial Minerals Europe network, which aims to develop a flourishing sector at the heart of a sustainable Europe.