Our Encirc division hosts UK Prime Minister

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited our Encirc division's plant in Elton on 4 October, accompanied by the Chancellor and the Energy Secretary. During the visit, the Prime Minister announced a funding package aimed at reducing emissions from UK industry. This plan, which includes £21.7 billion over the next 25 years, aims to boost the adoption of technologies such as carbon capture, use and storage (CCUS) and green hydrogen.

The announcement will see major funding for two carbon capture sites which will inject growth into the industrial heartlands of the North West and North East of England. The plans have been welcomed by Encirc as it continues to lead the way on decarbonisation.

Encirc, which has operations in Derrylin, Elton and Bristol, is a market leader in the UK glass manufacturing sector and a key player globally, producing over 3 billion glass containers every year and catering to some of the world’s most prominent brands.

Encirc Managing Director Sean Murphy welcomed the announcement, saying;

“Encirc is delighted to have played host to the Prime Minister, Chancellor and Energy Secretary at our facility in Chester today.

“The government’s announcement is a huge step forward for sustainable manufacturers like ourselves and will help support the journey towards the production of billions of low carbon glass bottles and jars for global food and drinks brands across the UK.

“As a business with sustainability at its core, Encirc has been a longtime innovator in finding ways to reduce our carbon footprint, both in the manufacturing process as well as in logistics and supply chain.

“The regional focus is a sign of confidence for businesses here in the North West, and we hope further afield, including places like Fermanagh which are often left behind.

“We look forward to working with UK Government on a range of issues to ensure that the right conditions are in place to enable inclusive green growth that benefits everyone across society.”

Raúl Gómez, CEO of the Vidrala Group, added: “We are proud to have welcomed Sir Keir Starmer, Rt Hon Rachel Reeves and Ed Miliband to our unique Elton site.

“These are quite challenging times for the consumer industry in the UK and today, more than ever, we need support, protection and investment. This is why we are appreciative of the visit and the government’s commitment to this strategic investment in green energy that will help ensure that our glass is the most sustainable packaging of choice, made in the UK, for British consumers.

“The Vidrala Group remains firmly committed to Encirc and will further promote its future with an ambitious industrial plan that will include employment, investment and improvements in sustainability, with our customer in mind. Big congratulations to all our people in Encirc, led by our MD Sean Murphy and his fantastic leadership team.”