From Snorkelling Idea to Global Exit: NRG Marine, Innovation and the Alfa Laval Acquisition

Our host, Stuart Broadley, speaks with Darren Rowlands, CEO of NRG Marine, for an inspiring Survive & Thrive story about turning a chance holiday discovery into an award-winning global clean technology business.

Founded after spotting heavy biofouling on yachts during a family sailing trip, NRG Marine developed an ultrasonic anti-fouling solution that prevents marine growth without harmful chemicals. Over seventeen years, the Coventry-headquartered company expanded from recreational boating into commercial shipping, oil and gas, refineries and industrial applications — investing heavily in R&D, securing ATEX certification, and building a fast-growing international customer base.

In this episode, Darren shares how the company scaled into new verticals, delivered significant maintenance and efficiency savings for clients, won Energy Marine Company of the Year 2024, and ultimately achieved a strategic acquisition by Alfa Laval. It’s a candid conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, pivoting markets, backing talent, and knowing when the time is right to hand over the baton.