The challenges facing people and our planet are more evident today than ever. But this is not a time to feel down. It’s a time to step up. That’s why we’ve launched Project Possible. And. It. Is. Huge.
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2025/26 Report Our ESG Programme
“At Crown, our purpose has always been simple – to help everyone paint their own possible. With the launch of our new Project Possible report, we’re bringing that to life in a bigger, more meaningful way. This isn’t just about what we do as a business, but how we can create real, positive change for people, our communities and the world around us. We know the challenges facing society and our planet are significant, but we genuinely believe in the power of small actions coming together to make a big impact. Whether it’s creating healthier spaces, inspiring creativity, or working more sustainably, Project Possible sets out what we stand for and where we’re going next. What makes me most proud is that this is a collective effort – driven by the passion of our colleagues, supported by our customers and partners, and aligned with the wider ambitions of Hempel and The Hempel Foundation. Together, we’re not just imagining what’s possible – we’re making it happen.”
Matt Crossingham Managing Director - Crown
our storyso far...
1777 Crown’s story begins in Darwen as Dob Meadows Print Shop.
1994 Crown’s Hull and Darwen sites come together as two of the UK’s major paint production centres.
1904 As colourful homes become fashionable, experiments with water- based paints begin.
1966 The Crown Paints brand is born, with the first paints sold under the Crown name.
2022 Project Possible begins, setting ambitious goals for a more sustainable future.
1980 Crown launches Matchpots ® , one of the UK’s first paint sample products, making colour choice easier than ever.
1811 Henry Blundell establishes the business in Hull’s Market Place, laying the foundations for one of the city’s oldest manufacturers.
2011 Crown joins the Hempel family when it is acquired by Hempel A/S.
1949 Walpamur receives a Royal Warrant from King George VI, later renewed by Queen Elizabeth II throughout her reign.
2023 Crown is awarded a Royal Warrant by King Charles III — becoming the third monarch to grant the honour.
1982 - 1988 Crown Paints sponsors Liverpool FC during one of the club’s most successful eras. These shirt sales continue to help fund our grassroots sports sponsorship today!
1968 Queen Elizabeth II visits Crown House, marking a proud moment in Crown’s history.
Project Possible covers five key areas and runs through our entire business and beyond. It’s bold and ambitious and those are words we’re proud to live up to.
charity From fundraising and donating products, to simply lending a helping hand, we’re committed to making sure the positive power of paint reaches those that need it most.
education We know we can’t bring about change on our own, so nurturing the next generation of professional painters, decorators and designers is something we’re immensely passionate about.
sustainability By enabling our customers to make more sustainable choices, whilst scrutinising the ones we take as a business, we’re doing more than ever to drive sustainability and reduce our carbon impact. > 0.1% We are continuously reducing VOCs in our products. 84% of all the paint we sold in 2025 had VOCs levels lower than 0.1%.
people & culture Change starts at home. Our Crown family are everything to us, and we’re continually developing a safe and empowering working environment that’s rich in opportunity for all.
community We’re on a mission to
support communities across the UK and Ireland by leading projects that help people get the best from their local places, spaces and sports clubs. 990 + community groups and good causes were supported in 2025 with paint donations* .
37.1% of our workforce are
885 professional decorators, architects and designers supported with our career- boosting training programmes.
£25k + raised throughout 2025 for Mind and Mental Health Ireland.
women – an important milestone on our journey to better diversity and inclusion.
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sustainability
We believe it’s possible to make the world more sustainable with smarter paint choices.
our big ambitions…
We’re proud of the progress we’ve made so far, but we know there’s more to do. We’re creating a brighter future. Our 2026 ambitions focus on three key areas where we can drive lasting change: achieving fully fossil-free operations, advancing products that support healthier spaces, and enabling greater circularity across our business. Together, these goals will help us reduce our impact, innovate responsibly and create positive change for the future.
Healthier spaces Advancing safer, low-impact products. We will accelerate the development of paints and coatings that enhance wellbeing and minimise environmental impact throughout their lifecycle.
Circularity in action Eliminating waste & closing the loop. We will move beyond zero waste to landfill to enable true circularity across packaging and materials.
Climate & energy
Deliver a fully fossil-free operation. We will complete the transition to 100% fossil- free operations across all Crown sites, while driving energy efficiency across manufacturing, logistics and retail.
Gas heating systems in all our factories converted to renewable electricity.
99.5% fossil fuel free
We have already reduced direct emissions from our two paint production factories.
An assort ment of our trade products are certified to be compliant with Green Building Schemes.
All internal vehicles within our factories converted to renewable electricity. Plus 50% of our fleet is electric or hybrid.
We've reduced direct carbon emissions from our operations (scope 1&2) by 77% direct and indirect emissions vs 2019
We are continuously reducing VOCs in our products. 84% of all the paint we sold in 2025 had VOCs levels lower than > 0.1% .
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On average,
each year for the last 4 years we have recycled over 1000,000 cans through
Mind The Waste
Transforming materials and mindsets.
Mind The Waste began with a simple observation. Through his work at Crown, Piotr Korczynski became aware of small volumes of surplus materials generated through testing and development processes. While these materials could no longer be used for their original purpose, many still held value. Initially, the concept focused on finding creative ways to repurpose these materials and prevent unnecessary waste. However, the project soon evolved into something much more personal. Piotr joined Crown in 2022 as a QC Controller in Hull before moving into his current role as an R&D Technologist in Darwen. While his professional journey reflects curiosity and a drive to learn, it was during a challenging period in his own life that the idea behind Mind The Waste began to take shape. By experimenting with surplus paint and reclaimed materials as a form of creative expression, Piotr discovered an outlet that helped him relieve pressure, focus his attention and reconnect with the present moment. Through the process, he recognised a deeper connection between material sustainability and personal wellbeing. This insight became the foundation of Mind The Waste. At its heart, the initiative explores transformation—showing how materials
considered waste can be given a second life, while also encouraging people to reflect on their own resilience, growth and potential. Using surplus paint and reclaimed materials, Mind The Waste creates artworks, workshops and exhibitions that encourage conversations around sustainability and wellbeing. The creative process itself provides participants with an opportunity to pause, focus and engage in mindful, hands-on activity. Since its inception, the initiative has grown from an individual experiment into a wider engagement platform. Workshops delivered within Crown have encouraged colleagues to explore creativity using reclaimed materials, while exhibitions have demonstrated how environmental responsibility and personal wellbeing can be connected through practical action. Reflecting on a recent workshop, one colleague highlighted the opportunity to connect with others and learn about “ways to reuse waste products from our business” as well as the “passion and creativity shared by Piotr.” Another described the experience as “very therapeutic”, valuing the chance to step away from the desk, focus on a hands-on activity and take time to de-stress. The project has also expanded beyond the workplace through exhibitions and fundraising
activities, including contributions to the Crown Charity Golf Day in support of Mind. By transforming surplus materials into creative works, Mind The Waste demonstrates how positive environmental action can also create social value and support important causes. Looking ahead, Piotr’s ambition is to continue growing Mind The Waste through workshops, partnerships, exhibitions and community participation programmes. The long-term vision is to build a movement that helps people rethink waste in all its forms—not only as something to reduce, but as an opportunity for regeneration and positive change. Ultimately, Mind The Waste is about recognising value where it is often overlooked. By bringing together sustainability, creativity and wellbeing, the initiative demonstrates how small actions can contribute to stronger people, stronger communities and a more sustainable future.
“Materials are often discarded once their original purpose has ended,” explains Piotr. “Yet many still hold value. I began to realise that the same can sometimes be true of our own experiences. Challenges and setbacks do not have to define us; they can become part of something meaningful.”
Piotr Korczynski R&D Technologist
charity
We’re dedicated to helping our charity partners with our profits and our paint.
our big ambitions…
Making a difference together.
Raising more for mental health We’re committed to raising £25,000 each year for our national charity partner, Mind. Through colleague fundraising and partnerships, we’re supporting better mental health in the communities we serve.
Supporting our local
We’re committed to creating a positive impact in the communities we serve by supporting causes that matter most. Through fundraising, volunteering and local partnerships, we’re bringing colleagues, customers and communities together to drive meaningful change. In the years ahead, we’ll continue raising vital funds for Mind while supporting local charities and grassroots organisations that make a real difference every day.
communities We continue to give back to the communities around us—supporting local charities, grassroots organisations and those in need. By empowering our teams to take action, we’re helping make a meaningful difference where it matters most.
our partnership with Mind
Together for better mental health.
What’s the partnership aiming to achieve? Together, we set an ambitious goal to raise £25,000 annually over the course of our three-year partnership—and we’re pleased to be on track to achieve this. However, the partnership goes far beyond fundraising. A key priority has been raising awareness of mental health and ensuring our colleagues feel confident accessing support when they need it. By working closely with Mind, we are helping to create an environment where conversations around mental health are more open, informed, and supported. What impact has it had so far? There have already been several standout moments. Our annual golf day in May has become a flagship event, raising nearly £20,000 in just one day last year. Importantly, it also provided a valuable opportunity for colleagues, customers and suppliers to come together and engage in open conversations about mental health. We’ve also been proud to collaborate with Mind on community initiatives, including donating paint to local Minds across England and Wales. These contributions have
supported a range of impactful projects, such as Llanelli Mind’s Young People’s Crisis Prevention Café and improvements to Oxfordshire Mind’s supported accommodation. It’s rewarding to see how these projects are directly benefiting local communities and improving spaces for those who rely on them. Whats next? Looking ahead, we’re excited about the potential to build on this momentum. One aspiration is to develop a joint Crown Paints x Mind external campaign, potentially exploring the link between colour and wellbeing through a dedicated palette. Alongside this, we remain focused on embedding mental health awareness across our organisation—ensuring colleagues feel informed, supported, and confident in helping both themselves and others. We’re already seeing positive signs of cultural impact, and we are committed to growing this further. Why are partnerships like this so important? As Issy highlights, partnerships like this are increasingly important: “We’re in the middle
of a mental health crisis in the UK, and partnerships like this are more important than ever… they raise vital funds so that Mind can continue delivering its services, and so that anyone experiencing a mental health problem gets timely access to quality care.” How is the partnership making a difference at Crown? Internally at Crown, the partnership also plays a key role in shaping our culture. It reinforces our commitment to colleague wellbeing and helps break down stigma around mental health by encouraging open, honest conversations. With visible support from senior leaders, we are continuing to drive meaningful, lasting change—ensuring mental health remains a priority across Crown Paints.
Our partnership with Mind continues to be a strong example of how collaboration can drive meaningful impact, both through fundraising and by supporting cultural change across Crown Paints. From the outset, Mind shared our ambition to make a difference, recognising our commitment to community engagement through Project Possible and the opportunity this presented to achieve significant outcomes together.
Issy Ormerod, Corporate Partnerships Officer at Mind, reflects: “It’s clear that Crown has a genuine commitment to charity and community work through their Project Possible programme, so we knew we could achieve big things with this partnership.”
Issy Ormerod Corporate Partnerships Officer at Mind
Designing spaces for wellbeing.
creating calm with colour
Kathryn Lloyd has been part of Crown for over 20 years, starting her career in 2006 as a temporary Colour Consultant. Over time, her role has evolved from Colour Consultant to Colour Specialist, with growing responsibility across design and colour guidance. While her role has developed, at its heart it remains the same—helping people create spaces that feel right for them. This expertise was brought to life through a recent project supporting Lancashire Mind, one of Crown’s charity partners. When the team began preparing a new office space, they reached out for support with both paint and colour selection. Kathryn worked closely with them to understand how the space would be used and, importantly, how they wanted it to feel. With the building still undergoing renovation, the project relied on detailed conversations, floorplans and insights from the team rather than in-person visits. Together, they explored how different areas within the space—from welcoming entrances to quieter, more reflective rooms— could be shaped through colour. The aim was to create a balance: energising spaces where needed, alongside calm, restorative environments for those who required a sense of comfort and quiet.
A cohesive palette was developed to link the space together, combining softer, calming tones with more uplifting shades, alongside thoughtful use of natural light and materials. The result is a space designed not just to look good, but to support how people feel as they move through it—reflecting the important work Lancashire Mind does every day. For Kathryn, the project held personal significance. With close friends who have experienced mental health challenges, she has seen first-hand how environments can influence how we feel. Her passion for colour comes not just from design expertise, but from understanding its impact on wellbeing. As she explains, even small changes can make a difference: “A little injection of colour… can really help to lift a mood and create a sense of warmth.” Alongside the consultation, Crown supported the project with a paint donation, helping to bring the designs to life and ensuring the space could be transformed in a practical and meaningful way. Kathryn’s advice for others looking to create spaces that support mental wellbeing is simple: choose colours that feel right for you. While colour theory can offer guidance, personal preference
Reflecting on the impact of the project, Emma Broom, Corporate Fundraiser at Lancashire Mind, said: “Our Balfour Court office really will transform the way people in Lancashire access our life-changing services. This wouldn’t have been possible without your generous support. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
plays a key role. Lighter, softer tones can help create calm and relaxation, while brighter shades can energise and uplift. Deeper colours, when used thoughtfully, can create a sense of comfort and security. Ultimately, it’s about balance and confidence. Whether through bold statement colours or subtle, calming palettes, even small changes can have a positive impact. As Kathryn encourages, don’t be afraid to embrace colour—there are tools, samples and expertise available to help along the way. As part of the Charity pillar of Project Possible, this project highlights how Crown’s expertise and products can come together to support communities in meaningful ways. By combining colour insight with practical support, the team has helped create a space designed to make a real difference to those who use it.
Kathryn Lloyd Crown Colour Specialist
We raised over £10 , 000 in one day through our annual corporate charity golf day for Mind in 2026.
Investing in young people
through continued funding and paint donations to local Youth Zones, helping to create places where they can feel safe, supported and inspired.
our payroll giving scheme to colleagues in Ireland, enabling greater support for and its vital work. Expanded
Working with Mental Health Ireland’s Hello, How Are You? campaign to encourage open conversations about mental health across communities.
25K raised for Mind
Through ongoing paint donations to
throughout our 1st year of partnership
Nightsafe, Crown is helping to transform accommodation for homeless young people into safe, welcoming spaces where they can thrive.
community
Our Crown family are at the heart of everything we do and we’re committed to creating an environment rich in possibility for all.
our big ambitions…
Adding colour where it counts. We’re using the power of colour to create brighter, more vibrant communities across the UK and Ireland. Through community mural projects, paint donations and investment in grassroots sport, we’re helping transform shared spaces, support local pride and create more opportunities for people to come together. By working alongside local partners and volunteers, we’re leaving a lasting legacy in the communities we serve.
Bringing colour to communities We’re continuing to support community regeneration through murals and paint projects across the UK and Ireland. By working with local partners and volunteers, we’re helping to brighten shared spaces and make a
Donating paint to make a difference We’re donating 50,000 litres of paint—or more— to support community projects across the UK and Ireland. Every drop helps to brighten spaces and create lasting impact in the communities we serve.
Investing in grassroots sport
We’re committed to investing £15,000 in grassroots sport every year. By supporting local teams and communities, we’re helping to create more opportunities to get active and thrive.
lasting difference in the communities we serve.
165* community projects supported with paint donations. *not including CDCs and Wickes donations
Supporting Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture through a stunning mural installation comprising of
14 vibrant
Donated paint to
4 life-changing projects
artworks, bringing colour, creativity and cultural pride to communities across the city.
for DIY SOS UK and became official paint sponsor for DIY SOS Ireland.
grassroots sports teams have benefited from Crown sponsorship, receiving new kits and equipment to help keep local communities active and engaged in sport.
A record 49
litres of paint has been donated direct from Crown since July 25 . A whopping 30522
Collaborating with Wickes for a third year as their community paint partner. Together we donated of paint throughout the partnership. 29683 litres
preserving heritage, creating opportunity
The project delivered benefits beyond the physical improvements to the building. Residents now enjoy brighter, more welcoming shared spaces, while students gained practical experience in a live heritage environment— an opportunity rarely available so early in their careers. The experience helped them develop technical skills, build confidence and strengthen their future employment prospects. Reflecting on the project, Ellis Mudd, Production and Engineering Director UK & Ireland, highlighted the importance of supporting both local communities and future talent: “Supporting the restoration of the Charterhouse felt particularly meaningful. Not only is it a remarkable historic building, but it’s also a place where people live and call home. Seeing local students develop valuable skills while helping to preserve such an important part of Hull’s heritage makes this project something we’re genuinely proud to be part of.” For the Charterhouse community, the project also enabled long-standing refurbishment work to be completed. The donation helped accelerate planned maintenance while improving the day-to-day environment
As Sue Whittaker MBE, Chair of Trustees at Hull Charterhouse Almshouse, explained: “The donation of paint has enabled us to complete a project that has been outstanding for many years. This very timely and generous donation has moved our repair schedule on quite substantially.”
As part of Project Possible, Crown Paints is committed to supporting the communities connected to our sites. One recent project in Hull brought together community investment, skills development and heritage preservation, creating lasting benefits for both residents and students. Hull Charterhouse Almshouse is one of the city’s most significant historic buildings, providing supported accommodation within a Grade I listed property that has been part of the local community for centuries. Maintaining a building of this age and importance is an ongoing challenge, making partnerships and local support critical to its future. To support the refurbishment of the Charterhouse’s communal areas, Crown Paints donated paint that enabled students from Hull Technical College to undertake extensive redecoration work throughout the building. Working on-site throughout the academic year, students gained valuable hands-on experience while contributing to the preservation of an important local landmark.
for residents. The initiative demonstrates how collaboration between local organisations, education providers and businesses can create meaningful impact. By supporting the refurbishment of Hull Charterhouse, Crown Paints has helped preserve an important part of the city’s heritage while creating valuable development opportunities for the next generation of skilled tradespeople. As part of the Communities pillar of Project Possible, projects such as this reflect our commitment to creating positive change in the places where our colleagues live and work, helping communities to thrive while investing in skills for the future.
community in action
Connecting people through paint donations.
Today, Laura plays an important role in supporting Crown’s paint donation programme—helping to keep things moving behind the scenes. Her role is key in connecting teams across Crown and with partners such as CEVA and XPO, ensuring everything comes together smoothly to deliver real impact. Crown’s paint donations focus on giving a second life to damaged or surplus paint that cannot be sold but is still perfectly usable. Rather than being disposed of, this product is redirected into local communities, supporting projects such as redecorating community centres, youth spaces and other important facilities. What makes this initiative particularly powerful is the way it brings together partners along the journey. Through CEVA and XPO, who manage warehousing and transport, the programme becomes a shared effort. From picking and preparing stock to arranging deliveries, these teams play a hands-on role in supporting community projects—helping to turn a logistical process into something much more meaningful.
A recent example is Crown’s support for Warrington Youth Zone, delivered in collaboration with CEVA Logistics. The project, which supports a cause already championed by colleagues at CEVA’s Warrington depot, saw Crown provide paint to help enhance the space for local young people. For Laura, projects like this demonstrate the value of working closely with partners to create a positive impact in local communities. The connection goes beyond operations. Many of those involved are based in the same local areas as the projects being supported, creating a stronger sense of pride and purpose. Whether responding to requests from Crown or supporting projects initiated by partner colleagues themselves, there is a real sense that everyone is contributing to something positive. Feedback, photos and updates from completed projects help bring this to life, reinforcing the value of what’s being achieved together. At the heart of the programme is a careful balance. Donations are largely driven by the availability of damaged stock, meaning there
is a natural limit to what can be provided. While reducing waste remains the priority, the ability to redirect available materials into communities ensures they continue to deliver value where it matters most. Looking ahead, there is an opportunity to build on this strong foundation through deeper, longer-term relationships with community partners. Moving beyond one- off donations to ongoing collaborations allows Crown and its partners to better understand needs, see the results over time and create a more lasting impact. As part of the Community pillar of Project Possible, the paint donation programme highlights the power of collaboration. By bringing together Crown, its partners and local communities, it demonstrates how simple, practical actions can create meaningful connections—and make a genuine difference.
Laura Gillett has been part of Crown for almost 21 years, working across finance, commercial, business partnering and, more recently, logistics. Alongside her day-to-day role, Laura has long been involved in Crown’s community initiatives and was a founding member of the original charity committee.
Laura Gillett Logistics Manager
education
We want to help everyone have more colourful futures.
our big ambitions…
Creating opportunities to thrive.
Great ideas and great craftsmanship start with opportunity.
Champion apprentice decorators We continue to support initiatives like Crown Apprentice Decorator of the Year UK and WorldSkills Ireland, celebrating emerging talent and inspiring the decorators of the future.
Protecting craftspeople We’re working with the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) to support talented craft scholars and junior craft events nationwide, helping to preserve and promote essential skills.
Investing in future creators We’re providing development opportunities for architects and designers, while investing in apprenticeships and partnerships with universities to nurture the next generation of talent.
That’s why we’re supporting aspiring designers, architects, craftspeople and decorators through scholarships, apprenticeships and industry partnerships. By developing skills, sharing expertise and celebrating emerging talent, we’re helping future generations reach their full potential.
collaborating with University of Lancashire
Reflecting on the project, Amanda Bolton, Marketing Director at Crown Paints, said: “We were incredibly impressed by the creativity, thoughtfulness and professionalism shown by the UCLan students. They took our brief and transformed it into a boardroom design that not only reflects our values and brand, but also demonstrates the power of colour and design to create inspiring spaces. Their vision perfectly aligns with our purpose to Make Our World Last Longer, Beautifully, and we are proud to have supported such talented future designers.”
w Inspiring the next generation.
has grown into a fully immersive, real- world experience for students. When UCLan approached Crown for a project brief, the team saw an opportunity to do something different—offering students not just a concept, but a live business challenge to work on. Students were welcomed into Crown and given the chance to explore a real design brief, reimagining a working space within the business. From day one, they were treated as designers— engaging with stakeholders, exploring how the space is used and considering everything from light and layout to the practical needs of the people who use it every day. With support from across the business, including expert colour insight and creative guidance, they were able to approach the project in a way that felt both professional and purposeful. A visit to Material Source Studio added another layer to the experience, opening students up to new materials, ideas and sustainability considerations they may not otherwise encounter at this stage in their studies. It encouraged them to think beyond aesthetics and consider the wider impact of their designs—something that is increasingly
important in the industry. The experience culminated in a presentation to Crown’s senior leadership team. While this could have been daunting, the team ensured students felt supported and confident, even encouraging those who hadn’t planned to present to step forward. The result was an engaging and empowering experience that pushed students beyond their comfort zones in the best possible way. The impact has been clear. For students, it has been a chance to work on something real—building confidence in their ideas, improving their presentation skills and gaining insight into how design works in practice, not just in theory. For Crown, it has brought fresh thinking, new perspectives and the opportunity to connect early with emerging talent. Just as importantly, it has helped strengthen relationships with the next generation of customers. By giving students a positive, hands-on experience with the brand, Crown is building familiarity and trust with the designers and specifiers of the future—those who will go on to influence decisions across the industry.
As part of the Education pillar of Project Possible, Crown’s collaboration with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when education and industry come together with a shared purpose. The project gave second-year Interior Design students the opportunity to work on a live brief, reimagining a working space within Crown, while gaining valuable real- world experience and insight into the design industry. Integral to the success of the project were Jo Hickey and a wider team of colleagues, including Richard Bailey, Architecture and Design Consultant, who established Crown’s long-standing relationship with UCLan, alongside Kathryn Lloyd and Jemma Saunders from the colour team whose expertise and delivery were central to the experience. Together, they helped create a collaboration that went far beyond a typical university project. What began as guest sessions on colour
Looking ahead, the project is already set to continue. The selected design will be brought to life within Crown, with the student invited back to see their ideas implemented—creating a lasting connection and a valuable addition to their portfolio. Plans are also in place to repeat and expand the programme, both with UCLan and potentially with other universities, creating even more opportunities to connect education with industry. By investing time, expertise and creativity into the next generation, Crown is not only supporting future talent, but also building lasting relationships that will help shape the future of both the business and the wider industry.
Jo Hickey Learning and Development Manager
Libby-Kate Neal - Winner of Crowns boardroom redesign project
92
In partnership with the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST ), artisans and craftspeople. 10% practices enagaged
885 professionals supported through our Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training programme.
have secured full-time roles in Crown’s Darwen Research & Development laboratory after graduating with First-Class Honours, while a further 3 former degree apprentices 3 apprentices
of all proceeds from our CRAFTED™ by Crown collection will go to support the training of aspiring
are currently studying for degree qualifications with Manchester Metropolitan University.
100 aspiring apprentice decorators through the SkillBuild competition, helping them develop their skills and unlock their full potential. Crown empowered over
Crown has championed young apprentice painters and decorators through its sponsorship of WorldSkills Ireland, helping to develop the industry’s future talent. 60 years For over
We funded chemistry degree 3 undergraduates .
to offer a real life project to their second year students and we will be implementing the chosen design in our Boardroom.
people
& culture
Our Crown family are at the heart of everything we do and we’re committed to creating an environment rich in possibility for all.
our big ambitions…
Celebrating what makes us unique. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Across our offices, manufacturing sites and stores, we’re committed to creating a culture where everyone feels valued for their contribution and supported to reach their potential. By recognising and celebrating success, and continuing to strengthen our focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, we’re building a workplace where colleagues feel respected, connected and empowered to bring their whole selves to work every day.
Recognising our people An environment where recognition for colleagues’ contributions and hard work is shared positively, with regular moments to celebrate through Townhalls and simple ways to say thank you through digital recognition notes helping people feel proud of what they have achieved.
Inclusive and supportive workplace Creating an environment where our colleagues can bring their whole selves to work through our DEI initiatives.
growing with determination
Building a career at Crown.
Matthew Brown’s journey at Crown is a strong example of how determination, resilience and opportunity can come together to shape a career. Joining the business at just 22 years old as an Applications Assistant, he began his career supporting the Technical Services team with day-to-day tasks. From those early days, Matthew showed a strong desire to learn, develop and progress – a mindset that has helped him build a successful career and ultimately lead the very team where his journey began. From there, Matthew’s career developed steadily, driven by a clear ambition to keep progressing. He moved from assistant to technician and continued building his technical knowledge and experience, always looking for what the next step could be. By consistently asking what it would take to move forward—and acting on that feedback—he progressed into a Technical Consultant role and, most recently, into his current position as Technical Services Team Leader. A defining part of Matthew’s journey has been his willingness to step outside of his comfort zone. From learning new
technical skills to presenting in front of large audiences, he has embraced opportunities that challenged him and helped build his confidence. These experiences not only supported his professional growth but also opened up new possibilities he hadn’t previously considered. While his progression has been shaped by his own drive, Crown has supported that development by providing opportunities to grow, learn and connect across the business. Matthew’s experience highlights the importance of being proactive – seeking out support, asking questions and exploring different avenues for development. When those connections are made, the opportunities can be significant. Reflecting on his journey, Matthew’s mindset is simple but powerful: “You only get out what you put in.” It’s an approach that has guided his progression – putting in the effort, staying committed and continuing to push forward, even when progress hasn’t been immediate. His advice to others looking to develop their careers is to stay open to new challenges and not be afraid to step into the unfamiliar.
Taking opportunities – even when they feel outside your comfort zone – can lead to growth in ways you might not expect. He also emphasises the importance of resilience: not being discouraged by setbacks and continuing to move forward with a clear sense of direction. Today, Matthew leads the very team he first joined as an assistant – a full-circle moment that reflects both his personal determination and the opportunities available within Crown. His story demonstrates that career progression doesn’t always follow a straightforward path, but with the right mindset and support, it can lead to meaningful and rewarding outcomes.
Matthew Brown Technical Services Team Leader
developing future leaders
Women in Leadership Programme.
Colleagues from across Crown have recently taken part in the Women in Leadership programme, bringing together a range of roles, experiences and career ambitions. While each journey has been different, there is a shared sense of how valuable the experience has been – both personally and professionally. The programme combines structured learning with real-world application, covering a wide range of leadership topics while encouraging reflection and growth. One of the most valued aspects has been how practical the learning feels, equipping participants with tools and techniques they can apply straight away in their roles. Alongside this, the opportunity to connect with others – both within Crown and across other industries – has created a supportive and inspiring environment where experiences can be shared and learnt from. For many, the decision to take part was driven by a desire to grow, build confidence and prepare for the next step in their career. Whether stepping into leadership roles or developing existing skills, the programme has provided a space to challenge themselves and think differently about how they lead.
As Katrina Bevan, Key Account Manager, reflected: “It’s helped me better understand my own leadership style and develop the confidence I really needed to move forward.” Support from Crown has played an important role throughout the journey. Participants spoke positively about the encouragement they’ve received – from managers, colleagues and wider teams – and the flexibility to balance their day-to-day roles alongside the programme. Having the time to attend workshops, complete assignments and apply learning in real situations has made a real difference. Lauren Burnett, Senior Architectural & Design Consultant, highlighted this balance, sharing: “Having the opportunity to apply what I’m learning in real time, with the support of my manager and team, has been invaluable.” While the programme does require commitment, the overall experience has been incredibly rewarding. For many, it has provided a rare opportunity to step back from day-to-day responsibilities and focus on personal development. As Larisa Kalčinskij, International Sales Manager, explained: “The environment is
inspiring, supportive and motivating… the skills, knowledge and confidence gained are incredibly valuable.” Advice for anyone considering the programme is consistent: take the opportunity and fully embrace it. Being open to learning, stepping outside of your comfort zone and making time for development are all key to getting the most from the experience. Understanding your “why” and being willing to invest the time and energy can make a lasting impact. Beyond individual growth, the benefits are already being shared more widely across the business. Many participants have begun sharing their learnings with their teams, helping to build confidence and capability in others and creating a positive ripple effect. As part of the People and Culture pillar of Project Possible, the Women in Leadership programme demonstrates Crown’s commitment to investing in its people. By creating opportunities for development and supporting colleagues to grow, the business is helping to build confident, capable leaders, both for today and for the future.
Level 5 Women in Leadership Cohort 2026
37.10% of employees are women in our workforce.
Respect at work dignity, fairness and respect creating a workplace built on through our global Respect at Work statement and Code of Conduct, brought to life across Crown through colleague communications, team discussions and site-wide awareness campaigns.
Development is part of everyday life at Crown from apprenticeships and Women in Leadership programmes to Power Hours and internal career opportunities.
Building awareness, inclusion & belon ging
Through our DEI group, championing topics such as mental health, stress, autism, neurodiversity and Pride.
Inclusive hiring
93% in colleague feedback channels. Showing the value colleagues place on having their voice heard. participation
Attracting diverse talent and supporting fair hiring decisions through inclusive recruitment practices and diversity interview panels.
For more information on all things Project Possible, please visit: about.crownpaints.com/projectpossible For media enquiries, please contact: crownpaints@citypress.co.uk Crown Paints Ltd PO Box 37, Hollins Road, Darwen, Lancashire, BB3 0BG 01254 704951 Crown Paints Ireland Ltd 28 & 29 Grattan Business Park, Clonshaugh, Dublin, D17 X478 +353 1 816 4400
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