Solo Sprayers Limited was originally known as the FNP Manufacturing Company Ltd and this company was formed in 1926 in Birmingham, England. The purpose of the company is no longer clear but the original two directors describe their occupations as brass founders. One year later the company was purchased by Mr Henry Vale, who was the grandfather of the present managing director, and his business partner, a Mr W Hood.
A year later in 1927 the “SOLO” Sprayer is first mentioned. There was an agreement between Mr Denston of Thos. Denston & Son of Birmingham and the FNP Manufacturing Company who were to act as selling agents for the sprayer. This arrangement continued for a number of years until the death of Mr Denston in 1938.
All the business interests of Mr Denston were purchased by FNP Manufacturing Company and the sprayers continued to be made in Birmingham by a Mr W Shelley Creak at the premises in Masshouse Lane. In 1941 these premises were bombed and trading for the next year was very difficult. Trading continued with great difficulty due to the problems of obtaining materials. To add to the problems Mr Henry Vale died and his younger son Mr A G Vale took over the running of the company.
After the war Mr R H Vale, discharged from active service, took over as managing director from his younger brother. Demand far exceeded the supply which could be obtained from the factory in Birmingham so in 1949 it was decided to make the sprayers in Southend on Sea, Essex. At the same time the company name “Solo Sprayers Ltd” was registered. The sprayers continued to be made in Southend with an office in Gracechurch Street in the heart of the City of London. In 1952 new premises were obtained in Eastwood just outside Southend. At this time Solo Sprayers Ltd took over the manufacture and sales of the sprayer and FNP Manufacturing ceased trading.
The current Managing Director, Mr R J Vale, took over from his father in 1985. The company now sells all types of sprayers for many different purposes but the original SOLO sprayer is still made. Sprayers made over 50 years ago are still sent in for overhaul.
In 2014 the company was acquired by Goizper S Coop, Solo’s major and supplier and one of the world’s leading manufacturer of spraying machines.
Important notice – SOLO KLEINMOTOREN
Solo Sprayers Ltd has no connection with the company Solo Kleinmotoren Gmbh. We can offer no assistance with service or spare parts, so please check the original manufacturer of your sprayer before contacting us.
