STORY
International manufacturer Knauf Insulation today confirmed a £170 million investment in a cutting-edge rock mineral wool factory at its Deeside site in Shotton, pledging to create around 140 direct jobs and bolster the local supply chain. The new facility, due to begin production in 2026, will use UK-First Submerged Arc Furnace technology to churn out over 100,000 tonnes of non-combustible, low-carbon, recyclable insulation each year. Knauf’s expansion is backed by the UK and Welsh Governments through the North Wales Growth Deal and the Flintshire and Wrexham Investment Zone, reflecting ministers’ drive to attract inward investment and support advanced manufacturing hubs across Wales.
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said:
“This £170 million investment by Knauf Insulation is fantastic news for North Wales and our UK Government mission to drive economic growth. It’s a vote of confidence in the Welsh economy and our plan to make Britain the destination of choice for industrial investment.”
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates added that the project “is a testament to the skills and facilities we have here” and pledged continued support as construction gets underway.
Baroness Gustafsson, Minister for Investment, emphasised Knauf’s role in the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which identifies advanced manufacturing as one of eight priority sectors:
“The UK is open for business, and this is yet another vote of confidence in North Wales and its thriving advanced manufacturing sector, which will boost jobs and prosperity across the region.”
Neil Hargreaves, Managing Director of Knauf Insulation Northern Europe, noted the company’s long heritage in Wales and its commitment to sustainability:
“Using cutting-edge furnace technology, the factory will support safer, more energy-efficient and sustainable buildings—aligning with both Welsh and UK government visions for industry.”