£50m investment to produce crop protection products on a global scale

Science-based manufacturer injects millions into Huddersfield manufacturing facility.

Global company Syngenta is spending around £50m redesigning one of its large-scale production lines to support the delivery of PLINAZOLIN® technology, a new active ingredient that protects plant health against pests.

Site manager Pete Waddington said: “In addition to our existing product portfolio, manufacturing key active ingredients here in Huddersfield means we can secure jobs for the future and help growers fight crop pests using the next generation of more sustainable technologies.

“It also confirms our strong commitment to investing in innovation and jobs in the UK.

“Making this new technology for farmers is the result of our continued commitment to invest in the long-term development of innovative and effective solutions that increase crop productivity in a sustainable and environmentally responsible way.”

The Huddersfield firm has been providing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) apprenticeships for more than a decade.

It notes that this £50 million investment presents future career opportunities for aspiring chemists, engineers and manufacturing technicians of the future.

Syngenta’s Huddersfield operations contribute £140m GVA to the Kirklees economy and the company has spent heavily on plant expansion projects in recent years to meet customer demand.

The company adds that its Huddersfield site remains a key strategic asset. The site is said to be well placed for further growth as the company aims to bring new advanced and sustainable chemical solutions to global agricultural markets.

Waddington said: “We have an exciting future as part of the Syngenta family, making important products that help secure our food supply.

“The company is always evaluating potential projects for investment in the UK and we are working hard to deliver PLINAZOLIN® and ensure continued investment in the Huddersfield operations.

“We have the skills and knowledge in Huddersfield to deliver a fast-paced supply chain.”