On 26 March 2026, Ultratape proudly marked 50 years of supplying quality products to the UK market. Founded in 1976 as Bruce Douglas Marketing Ltd, the business has grown steadily over five decades, guided by strong family values, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to service.

True to its founding principles, Ultratape has built a reputation for delivering exceptional products, in full and on time – every time. While the business has evolved significantly since its early days, its ethos remains unchanged:

CHOOSE QUALITY.
CHOOSE SERVICE.
CHOOSE ULTRATAPE.

Built on Values, Grown Through Trust

It may sound clichéd, but loyalty, stability, honesty and consistency remain the essential ingredients behind Ultratape’s longevity. As a family-owned business, Ultratape has achieved sustainable growth while staying true to the values on which it was built.

That approach continues to pay dividends. A milestone £15 million turnover in 2023 stands as testament to the dedication of the Ultratape team and the enduring trust placed in the business by customers and partners alike.

Read More: Ultratape – One Voice Magazine

A Timeline of Progress

From supplying Dundee in the late 1970s, to expanding across Scotland and the wider UK, Ultratape’s journey has been defined by thoughtful investment and long-term thinking. Key milestones include:

Expansion through the 1980s, emerging stronger during challenging economic conditions
The launch of the Ultratape brand in 1992
Strategic relocations supporting growth, culminating in today’s 120,000 sq ft warehousing operation
ISO accreditations and supplier approvals that reinforce quality assurance
Becoming trusted suppliers to leading buying groups and merchants nationwide

A Trusted Industry Partner

Ultratape is an active supplier member of NMBS, NBG, H&B, and several other buying groups across different sectors. The business is also a committed Supplier Member of the BMF, regularly participating in regional meetings, supplier events and annual conferences.

“The BMF plays a vital role in our industry,” says Ultratape. “We are extremely grateful for the support they provide and would encourage all members to make full use of the opportunities available — particularly around apprenticeships, learning, development and training.”

In recognition of the industry’s people, Ultratape was immensely proud to sponsor and present the BMF Lifetime Achievement Award to Chris Hayward in September 2025, celebrating both his contribution and the outstanding stewardship of NMBS for the benefit of the wider merchanting community.

Investing in People

One of Ultratape’s proudest achievements is its people. The company has built a culture of training, development and retention, reflected in an average employee tenure of 14.3 years — a rarity in modern business and a clear indicator of stability and mutual respect.

Corporate Responsibility Close to Home

When it comes to CSR, Ultratape firmly believes that home is where the heart is. Cancer affects so many families, and the business has seen first-hand the emotional and practical challenges it brings.

As proud sponsors of Lord Provost’s Parade N Guin, Ultratape continues to support its local Maggie’s Centre, helping deliver vital services to those affected by cancer across Dundee and the surrounding area.

In 2024, Ultratape also became Headline Sponsors of Bonfest, the internationally recognised rock festival celebrating the life and work of Bon Scott of AC/DC. Held in his hometown of Kirriemuir, Bonfest raises funds for youth music and the arts across Angus and Dundee — a cause Ultratape is proud to champion.

50 Years On — What Has Been Achieved?

After half a century, Ultratape reflects with pride on what has been built:

A leading UK brand across Home, Office, Engineering, Fixings, Agriculture, Construction and DIY markets
120,000 sq ft of warehousing with £6m of stock available for immediate despatch
Supplier to 10 out of 10 of the UK’s top merchanting businesses
A loyal, experienced team with long-term tenure
Strong partnerships built on trust, service and quality

Here’s to the past 50 years — and to the future of an industry built on relationships.