Advanced composites specialist KS Composites acquired by Twisted
KS Composites, the renowned Melton Mowbray-based engineering and advanced composites specialist, has been acquired by Twisted, the marine and automotive experts.
Founded by Kelvin Smith in 1985, KS Composites is a specialist in composite and Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) development and manufacturing. With a history of working on the manufacture of Ford’s GT40, through to the restoration of the Le Mans-winning Silk Cut Jaguars, today the firm is led by Managing Director Jamie Smith, son of Kelvin. It manufactures advanced composite components, fabricating, renovating and repairing GRP body work from its 48,000 sq ft location in Old Dalby, Leicestershire.
Managing Director Jamie Smith continues to lead KS Composites and has also joined the Twisted board of directors.
He said:
“As Twisted prepares for global growth, including increased activity in the USA, it requires carbon fibre engineering expertise and production capability that provides a genuine competitive advantage. KS Composites delivers that capability, and I am delighted to play a part in expanding what Twisted can design, build, and deliver.”
Twisted Marine, based in Salcombe and Brighton, blends British racing heritage with meticulous engineering to redefine premium rigid-inflatable boats (RIBs). It is the sister company to Twisted Automotive, which was founded in Yorkshire in 2000, specialising in Land Rovers, introducing the Twisted Suzuki TJ in 2023.
The acquisition brings world-class carbon fibre capability into the Twisted group, strengthening its engineering solutions, accelerating innovation, and securing supply for the next generation of Twisted vehicles and marine products.
The addition of KS Composites is the latest step in a phase of growth. In the last five years Twisted has entered the premium marine sector, established a Special Projects division, expanded internationally, and in 2025 launched the new T-Bug – a modern recreation of the classic Baja Bug.
Jake Cronk, Twisted’s Chief Operating Officer, commented:
“With KS’s expertise in composites and Twisted’s commitment to creating the best possible vehicles and marine products, we’re accelerating every major project we have in motion. This is an important moment for the future of Twisted and an exciting step forward for both teams. We’re strengthening our British engineering expertise while unlocking the next chapter as a global business.
”KS Composites is now part of the Twisted family. Alongside its existing operations, it will support Twisted’s product development and manufacturing plans, contributing to new automotive builds, marine applications, and future advanced engineering projects. Both companies have grown from humble beginnings into respected British engineering names, sharing a deep commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, quality, and investing in talented people.”
All 120 members of the KS Composites workforce will remain in post. The acquisition complements KS Composites’ existing markets and client base, allowing the business to continue operating independently while benefiting from the additional resources and strategic opportunities afforded by Twisted.