50 Years At ISD: The Life & Times Of Colin Leighton

This November, we honour Colin Leighton, our Technical Support Manager, as we celebrate his 50 years at ISD Solutions! Since starting in 1974, Colin has witnessed four generations of the Moon family (our founding family), the introduction of the P&M Group, and the ongoing evolution of our composite panel manufacturing.

A hardworking and dedicated individual, always willing to take on challenging tasks and assist others. We recently caught up with Colin, as he reflects on an impressive half-century at the company.

How did your journey with ISD/P&M start back in 1974?

After leaving school at 16 with an interest in auctioneering, I initially joined my father and brothers at L T & Vowles as my first job, making coffins for three years. Realising it wasn’t a long-term fit, I moved to a Ledbury company focused on timber-framed fruit storage and briefly installed concrete garages with friends while exploring my career options.

One day, I saw a job ad in the local paper for a position at Insulated Storage and Display, later known as ISD Solutions. The P & M Group had yet to form. Following an interview, I was offered the role with a two-week probationary period, starting the very next week. The rest is history!

What did a typical working day look like back when you started? And what was different from then and now?

When I first joined the company, carpentry skills and craftsmanship were essential. At that time, all our cold rooms were timber-framed and clad with materials like plywood, D board, and stipple-glazed sheets. Later, galvanized sheets were introduced as methods and requirements evolved. Insulation materials included cork, polystyrene, and polyurethane, all of which were cut using an old panel saw, though much of the work was done by hand!

Looking back, one of the most significant changes I’ve observed is the dramatic improvement in Health and Safety standards, especially after we established a dedicated team. In the early days, our precautions were minimal, largely because we lacked awareness of the health risks posed by certain materials and products. We even improvised by using rags as dust masks to protect ourselves during tasks like cutting boards.

Over time, we phased out the timber rooms, transitioning to modular systems like Hemsec panels, which allowed for easier and more efficient assembly. This shift was successful and eventually led us to adopt larger, more modern composite panels from suppliers like Eurobond, whose materials have evolved significantly.

The difference today is unimaginable compared to when I first started. I’ve seen ISD’s transition from manufacturing our own composite panels to expanding into large-scale cold storage solutions as demand surged.

How has the role evolved from when you started? And what do you consider your biggest professional achievement?

It’s challenging to pinpoint exactly how my role has evolved over time. In the beginning, we all took on a bit of everything, requiring me to handle a wide range of tasks and executing them to the best of my ability. In many ways, I’ve come full circle. Now, with more structure in place, I continue to take on what’s needed, adapting flexibly to the demands of the role.

I don’t have a specific moment in mind, but I’d say my biggest achievement has been serving as the go-to person from when I started to where I am now, with extensive experience and knowledge of the company. I’ve no doubt experienced numerous changes within the company, witnessing both its physical growth and practical advancements over time.

Share a memory of a funny situation at ISD Solutions?

Over the years, I’ve encountered many amusing situations. One that stands out—and only funny now looking back—occurred when I was responsible for carrying the company’s first and only phone at the time. It was one of those early models that looked like a brick and seemed impossible to misplace.

During an on-site visit to a large, empty warehouse, our team was stationed at one end while the electrician subcontractors were at the other. At one point, as I was unwrapping and flipping composite panels, I suddenly realised I no longer had the phone on me or anywhere nearby. We even got around to calling it, but unfortunately, couldn’t locate it—I was completely baffled.

Our now-Board Director, Adrian Smith, wasn’t too pleased at the time, but to this day, he still jokingly reminds me of that little mishap!

What is your favourite part about working here?

Working here for such a long time I have met so many lovely people and look back with fond memories.  It was a real pleasure having the opportunity to work with Edgar Moon; he was a true gentleman and always took time to talk with you.

It’s also so rewarding seeing the projects completed when I first started off, having taken off into large companies. One that comes to mind, is my involvement with Linbar facilities in Gloucester, Cheltenham and Evesham, now of which has grown into the successful work of Creed Catering! .

Personally, I believe my core values have remained constant over the years—I’m always willing to help others and step up when needed. This mindset stems from my early working days, when teamwork was essential for getting things done and it has remained a guiding principle for me ever since.