Published 19th Jul 2023, 16:45 BST

The investment, which runs into hundreds of millions of pounds, is in response to demand for SoarnoL, the company’s brand name for a grade of Ethylene Vinyl Co-Polymer (EVOH) which is primarily used in packaging to extend the shelf life of food.

The new line is expected to be operational by mid 2025 and will create at least 30 direct jobs, with many more in the supply chain.

The Hull site, which opened in 2002, has seen a steady and significant increase in demand for SoarnoL as food manufacturers seek packaging with a lower environmental impact that can be recycled.

From left to right: Tom Duzijn, Fluor; Peter des Forges, Mitsubishi Chemical UK; Hitoshi Sasaki and Manabu Nagano, Mitsubishi Chemical Group. Picture: Kevin Michael Ladden Photography

The product, which is also used in the medical and agricultural sectors, mainly comprises carbon, oxygen and hydrogen, is colourless and odourless and acts as a barrier layer.

It preserves flavour and freshness through use in items such as the protective film on ready meals, squeezy sauce bottles, baby food packaging and meat packaging. Other applications include cosmetic products such as cream and toothpaste tubes, plastic fuel tanks, animal feed and underfloor heating.

Managing director Peter des Forges said that the start of construction marked a new chapter for the company. “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,” he said.

The business was formerly owned by Japanese company Nippon Gohsei.

It became wholly owned by Mitsubishi Chemical Group in November 2016 and changed its name to Mitsubishi Chemical UK in April 2021.

New production line at East Yorkshire chemical plant will double capacity and create 30 jobs