Mitsubishi Chemical Group UK Ltd, part of one of the world’s largest chemical producers, has committed to invest in a new production line at Saltend Chemicals Park.
Preparatory works have begun for construction of the new production line, which will double Mitsubishi Chemical Group’s capacity at the site, east of Hull.
The investment in a second production line will create dozens of new jobs while also safeguarding the existing 130 roles at the Mitsubishi Chemical Group facility on site. It is expected to become operational in 2026.
The line will help to meet growing demand for SoarnoL, the brand name for a grade of Ethylene Vinyl Co-Polymer (EVOH) which is primarily used in food packaging to extend product shelf life.
Since opening in 2002, Mitsubishi Chemical Group’s Saltend facility has seen a significant increase in demand for SoarnoL, which has been driven by food manufacturers seeking packaging that can be recycled and has a lower environmental impact.
The innovative product preserves flavour and freshness through use in items such as the protective film on ready meals, squeezy sauce bottles, baby food packaging, meat packaging and much more.
The investment will further strengthen trade links between the Humber and the rest of the world, with 95 per cent of production exported from the Saltend facility.
Peter des Forges, Managing Director, Mitsubishi Chemical Group UK, said, “Once the new line is operational, the majority of the increased production will service the needs of our customers in more than 40 countries who continue to explore ways they can reduce waste and meet environmental targets.”
Saltend Chemicals Park’s status as part of Humber Freeport’s Hull East tax site was a key factor in securing the investment, with plans for Mitsubishi Chemical Group to extend its lease with the chemical park’s owner and operator, px Group, until 2060.
Businesses investing within the Humber Freeport tax sites benefit from a series of advantages, ranging from business rate and stamp duty land tax relief to National Insurance support designed to reduce employment costs.
Humber Freeport Chair Simon Bird said, “We are delighted that Mitsubishi Chemical Group has chosen to make this very significant new investment at Saltend on a site benefiting from being within the Humber Freeport footprint.
“The substantial advantages offered by freeport status were an important factor in securing this new inward investment.
“It supports Humber Freeport’s mission to attract significant investment and create new, highly-skilled jobs and aligns with two of our key areas of focus – advanced manufacturing and decarbonisation.”
Other investments at the Hull East site include Pensana’s rare earth processing facility and Meld Energy’s proposed green hydrogen plant, both also located at Saltend Chemicals Park.
