KNAUF DRYWALL EXPANDS PRODUCTION

Plasterboard manufacturer Knauf Drywall is investing £24 million to increase capacity at its Immingham factory.

The project, now under way, includes a major extension of the plasterboard production line plus a new dryer, stacker and packaging equipment. Other improvements to the manufacturing processes, and additional warehousing will double the potential output of the factory. The new equipment is scheduled for commissioning in January 2006.

Managing Director Barry Topple says the new investment will help Knauf Drywall to meet growing market demand for its standard and specialist boards, plasters and steel building systems.

“Since the Knauf group entered the UK market in 1988 it has invested more than £100 million in plasterboard and plaster production,” he says. “We have a strong position built around our ability to provide market leading service to our customers.”

"This new investment will ensure that we maintain this position in a market with excellent future growth prospects for our business."

Products from Knauf Drywall are increasingly finding applications in prominent residential and commercial developments, government buildings, and public amenities.

Knauf Drywall also manufactures for the UK market at Sittingbourne, Kent.

Environmental considerations for the Immingham project include significant investment in recycling facilities, anti-pollution energy targets and mature landscaping.