Learn More About
Our Chemical Company
We’re proud of our company’s rich history and gladly share this with our customers far and wide. Considering partnering with Yorchem Ltd? Find out more about who we are and why we’re the go-to name in Stockton-On-Tees.
Where Yorchem Ltd’s Journey Began…
Yorchem Ltd was originally formed in 2001 as Abstract Polymeric Ltd as a research and development consultancy service. The name was chosen to reflect the business's innovative work in the creation and development of bespoke chemical solutions for the filmmaking industry, where its products have been used on the film sets of many famous British films.
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Due to increasing demand for its services, Abstract Polymeric commenced the manufacture and supply of bespoke offerings for the various surface coating industries. As the company expanded, a purpose-built production site was purchased at Durham Lane Industrial Estate in Stockton-on-Tees to facilitate this expansion, allowing a range of leather finishing chemicals to be developed, which are sold under the brand of Eurofinishes.
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In 2009, Abstract Polymeric Ltd changed its name to Yorchem to reflect the status of the now globally exporting surface coating manufacturer. Today, we are often the first choice for companies requiring new custom-made chemical solutions. "If it's not already on our range, we can make it!" This attitude has gained us a wide UK and international customer base, supplying products to huge multinational chemical giants, through to small part-time companies. If you are looking for an established chemical company, just get in touch.
The Team Behind Our Thriving Chemical Company
Darren Strafford
Managing Director
The company’s founder, Darren Strafford, studied chemistry and chemical engineering and was a Research and Development Chemist at chemical manufacturer Earnshaw Ltd, for a total of 15 years, before leaving in 2001 to establish Yorchem Ltd.
He has also project-managed chemical plant installation internationally and brings essential skills and knowledge to the company, gleaned from many years in chemical manufacturing and studying for his MBA.
Freddie Cartagena
Technical Sales Manager
Bolivian-born Freddie has more than 25 years’ experience in the supply of specialised coatings to the leather industry, both with Earnshaw, for which he helped establish new markets in South America, and Northampton-based WPS.
A highly respected technical consultant, Freddie has enjoyed a colourful career and remains something of a legend among leather producers in South America.
Amanda Parsons
Director and Office/Shipping Manager
Amanda has been a dedicated member of Yorchem since 2007, serving as Director and Office/Shipping Manager in the chemical industry. With nearly two decades of experience, she has overseen logistics operations, streamlined office management, and become a go-to expert in Sage systems. Amanda’s hands-on approach and commitment to continuous learning have played a vital role in the company’s day-to-day efficiency and long-term growth. Known for her reliability, adaptability, and deep operational knowledge, she continues to be a driving force behind Yorchem’s success.