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Posted: Thu 26th Sep 2024
A £1bn investment in redeveloping Shotton Mill will see it become the global leader in sustainable paper production safeguarding 147 jobs and creating an additional 220 when fully operational, in a major boost for North Wales’ economy.
The redevelopment by Eren Holdings, a leading Turkish manufacturer, represents one of the largest foreign investments in the region’s manufacturing sector in years.
The redevelopment will transform the site into the UK’s largest recycled paper manufacturing campus, strengthening the country’s commitment to sustainability and job creation in green industries.
The project will also help the UK transition towards net zero by improving recycling efficiency.
The revamped mill will produce nearly 100% recycled paper, dramatically reducing the need for the UK to export wastepaper overseas.
The facility is expected to process waste that would otherwise end up in landfills, using advanced technology to recycle and reuse materials on-site.
Government Backing
The investment comes with significant backing from both the UK and Welsh governments. UK Export Finance (UKEF) has guaranteed £136 million, while the Welsh Government has provided almost £13 million in funding to ensure the project moves forward, safeguarding local jobs and boosting green technologies.
Jonathan Reynolds MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, praised the initiative: “This is a massive vote of confidence in the Welsh economy. This transformative investment will not only support local skilled jobs but raise living standards in the community.”
The announcement also coincides with National Manufacturing Day, a celebration of innovation across the UK’s manufacturing sector.
The event underscores the UK Government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and creating a pro-business environment as it prepares for a global investment summit next month.
Local Impact
Shotton Mill’s redevelopment will see it become a global leader in sustainable paper production.
Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, highlighted the significance of the investment: “Deeside has a long and proud history as one of Wales’ key industrial centres, and this significant investment from our two governments will secure jobs and help bring a prosperous future for the area.”
The facility’s green credentials have also been a focal point for Welsh Government support. Rebecca Evans MS, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy, and Planning, stressed the environmental impact: “This project will result in a net reduction in carbon emissions equivalent to those from 190,000 homes annually, showing how our commitment to a green economy is attracting sustainable jobs and investment.”
Eren Holding’s Vision
Eren Holding, Turkey’s largest containerboard and corrugated cardboard manufacturer, acquired Shotton Mill in 2021 as part of its strategy for global growth.
The company plans to introduce state-of-the-art technology to the Deeside facility, making it Europe’s most advanced paper production campus.
Hamdullah Eren, a senior board member of Eren Holding, said: “Production at our new plant will be based on the most advanced technology, ensuring sophisticated and sustainable manufacturing well into the 21st century. We are proud to be putting down roots at a site of historic industrial significance and helping to build a prosperous future for Deeside.”
As part of the company’s long-term plans, the new mill is expected to contribute to both the UK and Welsh economies by increasing paper exports and reducing reliance on imports.
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