Knauf has reached an agreement with Gypfor for the purchase of a new plasterboard manufacturing plant in Newport, South Wales.

The multi-million pound investment will increase the UK production volume of Knauf's range of gypsum-based building materials by 20% when fully onstream in Q1 2023.

The factory, developed by Gypfor, is located at Associated British Ports port of Newport, allowing gypsum to be offloaded directly, avoiding road haulage. A state-of-the-art facility, it will benefit from green power generated by renewable sources, including wind and solar technologies, reflecting Knauf’s determination to reduce the carbon emissions associated with large-scale manufacturing. The plant will also have on-site recycling as part of its commitment to the circular economy.

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Managing Director of Knauf UK Ian Stokes said: "This new plant will significantly increase our ability to service customers throughout the UK, and particularly those in South Wales, the Midlands and the South-West of England. It is a very exciting move for Knauf and, following recent investment in increasing the capacity of Knauf Insulation, reflects the confidence of the Knauf Group in the UK construction sector."

Construction of the facility is progressing well, with commissioning due to begin later this year. Planned to be fully operational in early 2023, the plant will create some 54 local jobs, making it a welcome addition to the South Wales economy. Knauf will manufacture a broad range of gypsum boards in Newport, adding to the capacity of its existing plants in Immingham and Sittingbourne.