Denholm Coates dates back to 1905, when John Denholm – one of the founding brothers of J. & J. Denholm – and London shipbroker Mr. A. P. Pond, formed Denholm, Pond & Company. When Mr. Pond retired he was replaced by Herbert Coates and the company was renamed Denholm Coates & Company.
Denholm Coates is a subsidiary of J. & J. Denholm Ltd, which was founded in 1866 when James Denholm set up in business as a factor and land agent. He soon branched out into ships agency and shipbroking. In 1869 James was joined by his younger brother John and J. & J. Denholm was formed.