Company Timeline

Richards Hose was first established as a weaving mill in Scotland but was called ‘Richards of Aberdeen’ and was predominantly involved with the production industrial canvas and sails. Founded more than 200 years ago, Richards operated what was to become the oldest iron-frame mill in Scotland and the last remaining textile mill in the ‘Granite City’. At its peak in the early 20th Century, it was the largest employer in Aberdeen employing more than 3,000 people. It became a public limited Company in 1878.

Over the following decades, the business evolved into the design and manufacture of reinforced layflat hoses, supplying fire, industrial, agricultural, marine, and utility sectors across Europe.

Parsch GmbH acquired Richards and Richards Hose was incorporated in 1990, establishing a permanent UK presence to support British customers with locally held stock, technical advice, and service support.

Richards Hose grew its product range and reputation, spreading into multiple sectors:

The UK operation expanded beyond distribution to include:

In response to continued growth, Parsch UK moved to larger premises, enabling increased stock capacity, improved logistics, and enhanced in house operations

Parsch UK achieved WRAS and Regulation 31 approval for its Aquaflex Hose, enabling use in potable water and regulated water industry applications.

Parsch UK invested significantly in new machinery and plant, alongside the creation of a dedicated fabrication workshop for the manufacture of standpipes and other fluid transfer products, including bespoke customer specific items.

Company name formally changed from Richards Hose Limited to Parsch UK Ltd, incorporating the parent company name

Achieved:

Demonstrating a formal commitment to quality, environmental responsibility, and employee safety.

Parsch UK launched its e commerce website, expanding digital capability and enabling customers to access products, information, and ordering online.

Parsch UK is a trusted UK manufacturer and supplier of layflat hoses, fittings, and fluid transfer solutions—combining over a century of heritage with modern facilities, certified management systems, and strong compliance credentials.