Company History
Founded in 1952, Wilson and Scott has grown to become one of the UK’s leading independent road marking companies. With over 70 years of experience, we continue to deliver high-quality, safe, and sustainable marking solutions across the nation.
History
Established in 1952, Wilson and Scott has grown from a small family business into one of the largest and most respected line marking companies in the UK. Our founders played a pioneering role in shaping the standards that define the industry today, laying the foundations for the quality, safety, and innovation that remain at the heart of everything we do. Over the decades, we’ve continued to develop new initiatives, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and setting benchmarks that keep us at the forefront of our sector.
Today, we proudly operate a fleet of more than 100 specialist line marking vehicles and employ a dedicated and growing workforce across the country. Our ongoing investment in training, sustainability, and advanced equipmentensures that we continue to deliver exceptional results for our clients while driving progress within the industry.
Family
At Wilson and Scott, we value a strong family environment. Over 21 family groups work alongside one another on the roads, bringing trust, experience, and shared values into our day-to-day operations. This family-led culture strengthens teamwork, reliability, and pride in the work we deliver.
We are proud that not only our crews share family, but also our technician, estimating and IT teams.
This sense of family extends beyond shared surnames. It’s reflected in the way our teams support one another, pass down skills and knowledge, and take responsibility not just for the job, but for each other’s safety and success. By fostering long-term relationships and mutual respect, we create a working environment where people feel valued, supported, and proud to be part of Wilson and Scot
Wilson and Scott Painting
This painting highlights the life of William James (Jim) Scott founder of Wlson & Scott (Highways) Ltd. The three principal figures in the painting are Jim, his wife Joan and their son Stephen. They are depicted as they were in 1982. Stephen took over the running of the Company on his father’s retirement.
Wilson & Scott was formed by Les Wilson and Jim Scott in early 1952 when they left their employer of the time to take advantage of the new regulations requiring pedestrian crossings to be marked with Zebra panels. Les left shortly afterwards but the name was already established.
Jim retired in 1990 after 38 years in charge, and unfortunately passed in 2011.
Machinery
Over the years, our machinery has evolved significantly, reflecting our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and quality. The images above showcase some of our earliest creations and illustrate how they were originally used. These early machines laid the foundations for the advanced equipment we operate today, highlighting the progress we have made through continual development, investment, and expertise. Each stage of this evolution represents our drive to improve performance, adapt to changing industry demands, and deliver reliable solutions for our clients.
Our Timeline
1948
Early Starts
King George VI Dies
A few days after the infant Wilson & Scott got their first contract with Westminster council, the King died. All work was called off and the company faced a very tough beginning.
March 1952
Incorporation
On the 12th of March, 1952, the company was incorporated, becoming Wilson and Scott (Highways) Ltd. From this point forward, Wilson and Scott has become one of the largest, and the fastest growing, line marking companies in the UK.
1960
Bought by R.S Clare
R.S Clare bought out Wilson & Scott in 1960, with the Scott family retaining a stake of the ownership ever since.
Late 1960's
Steve Scott Joins Company
After proving himself in the city working in foreign exchange, as well as having a successful disco company, Steve Scott joined his father’s firm; working his way from an operative to Managing Director, and today, Wilson & Scott’s Chairman.
1970's - 1990's
Equipment Manufacturers
Wilson & Scott started manufacturing road marking equipment. This side of the business grew substantially, branching out globally with major markets in the Middle East and North America. Steve Scott would visit these countries to sell equipment and train operatives throughout the ’70s and ’80s.
1990
Move to Poyle
The fast growing company moved to a depot in Poyle where it stayed until 2011, until the move across the street.
2002
50 Years of Wilson & Scott
Wilson & Scott celebrated 50 years since its incorporation. A great milestone, with a wealth of history to show for it.
2009
25 Years of the Blue Line
Wilson & Scott celebrated 25 years of marking the blue line at the London Marathon. Something that the company still does, one of its longest standing contracts!
2022
70th Anniversary Onwards
Having 20 more years under its belt, Wilson & Scott continues to deliver outstanding line marking services across the nation, now celebrating its 70th year; with continued successes through a suite of ISO certifications and further ambitions for the future.
2022
A Milestone RIDDOR achievement
We have completed over 2 Million hours of work without a RIDDOR reportable incident.
2022
R S Clare 75th Birthday
R S Clare celebrates its 275thanniversary, an amazing milestone.
2024
Move to Thatcham
We moved from Poyle to Thatcham with new offices, workshop and depots.
Present 2025
Wilson & Scott
Wilson and Scott is a national line marking company. Our expertise covers car park markings, EV bays, disabled bays, school playgrounds, safety walkways, workshop markings, bespoke custom markings and road and highway markings.