Events

David Saxby Sells D-D The Aquarium Solution

Coral Freaks Aquarist of the Year David Saxby has sold his company to the owners of Red Sea. 

D-D is one of the largest British marine companies, known here for brands like Rowaphos, Clarisea, Aqua Illumination, Deltec and more. 

D-D is the third successful company that David Saxby has owned and sold, but he will remain with D-D for the next two years as Brand Ambassador. 

He will also continue to devise new products and to run his world-famous aquarium. 

The full, official press release is below: 

Cresco Ltd Acquires D-D The Aquarium Solution, Solidifying Global Leadership in the Marine Aquarium Industry

LONDON, UK – March 2, 2026 – Cresco Ltd, a UK-based investment company, today announced the acquisition of D-D The Aquarium Solution (“D-D”), a leading and highly respected brand in the marine aquarium industry. This transaction underscores Cresco’s strategic commitment to expanding its footprint in the marine and aquatic sector.

This key acquisition significantly strengthens Cresco’s presence in the global marine aquarium market, where it also owns Red Sea, a globally recognised leader in premium aquatic solutions. While D-D and Red Sea will continue to operate as independent brands, the newly formed partnership is expected to generate strategic advantages across their combined supply chains, enhancing operational efficiencies and delivering greater value to retailers and distributors worldwide.

Mr David Saxby, founder of D-D, will retain a key role, ensuring the brand’s vision and ethos remain true to its heritage.

“Joining forces with Cresco marks an exciting new chapter for D-D,” said David Saxby. “With Cresco’s support, D-D will be better positioned than ever to expand its capabilities while staying true to the values of quality and innovation that define the brand.”

This merger is a clear signal of Cresco’s ambition to be a dominant force, offering a comprehensive and diverse portfolio of solutions for marine aquarium enthusiasts globally.

About D-D The Aquarium Solutions

Founded over 20 years ago by David Saxby, D-D The Aquarium Solution is a leading brand in the marine aquarium industry. It is globally recognised for its commitment to quality, innovative products, and exceptional customer satisfaction, making it a trusted name among hobbyists and professionals worldwide.

About Cresco Ltd

Cresco Ltd is a UK-based investment company with a focus on strategic growth and value creation. The acquisition of D-D The Aquarium Solution, alongside its ownership of Red Sea, highlights its focused investment strategy within the dynamic marine and aquatic sector.

What does this mean for UK reef hobbyists?

According to the press release, Red Sea and D-D will continue to operate as separate brands, with their own products, people, and trade representatives. The two companies have a long history of trading with each other on previous products like salt and T5 light tubes. 

D-D products will continue to be available in the shops just as they are now, although we predict that D-D’s global exports will further increase as the Red Sea brand has further reach and market penetration around the world. 

D-D is a British saltwater aquarium success story, and the takeover marks a new, exciting chapter in its history.

It’s big news for the global Saltwater Aquarium Industry.   

Jeremy Gay

Jeremy Gay is an author of three fishkeeping books and a previous editor of Practical Fishkeeping Magazine, Pet Product Marketing Magazine and Reef Builders. He's a multi award - winning manager and runs a leading aquatic store.

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