AkzoNobel’s Awlgrip business today announces the early retirement of industry legend and an Awlgrip founding member David Halcomb.
David, or “Dr. Grip” as he is affectionately known in the industry, has finally decided that, after a career spanning 40 years in leading the way in topsides systems, it is time to hang up his spray gun and indulge his other passion in life, traveling in his motorhome with his wife Christi. David will, however, remain as a consultant with Awlgrip passing on his extensive knowledge and skills to the next generation of Dr. Grips.
From humble beginnings in 1973 when an as yet un-named topside paint was used on David’s father’s boat, interest steadily grew until the following summer when David somehow got America’s Cup Winner ‘Courageous’ and her tender painted completely with Awlgrip. During that summer Awlgrip became the buzzword in Newport and the phrase “get your boat Awlgripped” was coined. As the brand grew, with David and other Awlgrip colleagues leading the way, Awlgrip launched even more innovative products such as the repairable Awlcraft 2000 topcoat, industry-leading 545 Epoxy primer and the much lauded Awlfair filler range. To this day, with continued expert guidance from David, Awlgrip continues to lead and innovate.
Chris Toole, Global Brand Manager, Awlgrip comments: “I have known David for many years and what and who he doesn’t know in this industry just isn’t worth knowing! Of course we are sad to see David retire but we would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his immeasurable contribution to Awlgrip, from his tireless efforts getting Awlgrip out there in ’73 right through to the present day and his continued enthusiasm for the brand. It’s not only Awlgrip, though, who would like to thank David - on behalf of the entire yacht industry, we would all like to thank and applaud David for the past 40 years in the yacht industry and we wish him many happy miles of RV traveling.”