Our story
1759
Dowlais Ironworks founded
The Ironworks is founded in Dowlais, South Wales, and quickly starts producing 1,000 tonnes of iron each year.
1902
Forging Guest, Keen and Nettlefolds
A series of deals, takeovers and mergers in the early 20th century, including the purchase of Dowlais Iron Co., leads to the creation of Guest, Keen and Nettlefolds (later rebranded as GKN). By 1905, this was the largest iron, steel and coal group in the UK.
1947
Moving into the automotive industry
The nationalisation of its collieries prompts the business to diversify and start producing propeller shafts and constant velocity joints.
1966
Pioneering new technology
Following acquisitions, GKN Automotive enhances its constant velocity joint expertise and pioneers its use in front wheel drive cars like the Mini.
1988
Expanding global reach
GKN Automotive becomes the first Tier 1 automotive supplier to establish a joint venture in China. This joint venture, known as SDS, becomes the leading driveshaft supplier for the rapidly growing Chinese market.
1997
Growth of Powder Metallurgy
The expansion of the GKN Powder Metallurgy business starts in earnest with a series of international acquisitions that significantly grow its capabilities.
2011
Growing all-wheel drive(AWD) expertise
GKN Automotive invests significantly in its all-wheel drive capabilities, strengthening its position as the leading supplier of drive systems for light vehicles.
2023
Establishing Dowlais
Dowlais Group plc lists on the London Stock Exchange. The Group comprises GKN Automotive, GKN Powder Metallurgy and GKN Hydrogen.