A £45 million manufacturing facility has opened at the newly-built Gateway 14 in Stowmarket, Suffolk – creating 105 skilled jobs.
The business, innovation and logistics park, which is part of Freeport East, is now home to Assan Panel, part of international industrial group Kibar Holding.
The factory, the company’s first manufacturing facility in the UK, has the capacity to produce up to 4.5 million square metres of insulated wall and roof panels each year, strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity for the construction and industrial sectors.
Haluk Kayabaşı, Group CEO of Kibar Holding, said: “Last year, we gathered here in Suffolk to break ground on this facility, marking an important milestone in Assan Panel’s journey toward establishing a permanent presence in the European market.
“Today, it is a source of great pride for all of us to return to the same site and celebrate the opening of a fully operational manufacturing facility.
“With an investment of £45 million, Assan Panel is now positioned to serve the United Kingdom and neighbouring markets with direct access and significant logistical advantages.”
The facility’s grand opening brought together business leaders, suppliers, partners and local community leaders, along with senior representatives from the UK and Turkish governments.
Mid Suffolk District Council said the opening reflects the importance of the investment for Suffolk, UK manufacturing and growing trade links between the two countries.
Steve Beel, CEO at Freeport East, said: “It is fantastic to see the facility officially open.
“Projects like this are helping establish the Freeport East area as a growing centre for advanced manufacturing, innovation and international trade, and we look forward to supporting Assan Panel’s future growth.
“It is a major vote of confidence in Suffolk and in Freeport East.
“This £45 million investment will create skilled jobs, strengthen supply chains and support the continued growth of advanced manufacturing in the East of England.”
Ihsan Tolga Akar, Managing Director at Assan Panel UK, added: “We are proud to be creating skilled jobs in Suffolk and contributing to the next generation of industrial and commercial buildings that will support economic growth across the UK.
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to all our employees, partners, Freeport East, government and Council officials and stakeholders whose dedication and support have made this achievement possible.”
