2 minute read - 21st June 2023
Packaging manufacturer Biopax invests £47m in new factory
A new £47m factory on the former Caterpillar site in West Belfast could revolutionise the FMCG and food service packaging market with certified green solutions using the latest European, US and Chinese technology.
Founded by Dr Terry Cross OBE, who is also the man behind Hinch Distillery, Biopax will produce bespoke packaging and labels, both printed and unprinted for the food service, retail, distribution and beverage sectors. Occupying a 70,000 sq ft factory, which is about to be expanded on an 8.4-acre site, the firm will create 169 jobs over the next four years, with further investment planned in a second phase.
Invest Northern Ireland is supporting Biopax to create the new jobs, together with advice and guidance on R&D and export growth. Recruitment is underway, with 45 of the jobs already in place.
Packaging manufacturer Biopax is investing £47m in a new factory in West Belfast, creating 169 jobs / Picture: Invest NI
Dr Terry Cross OBE, said: “Biopax was born out of a passion to develop a truly green solution for today’s packaging needs. The company has invested significantly in research and development and the best green technology which, along with our in-house expertise, will enable collaborative solutions to be delivered to our customers. We are confident that the company understands the current market and the high growth potential. We know that this will bring huge economic benefits to Northern Ireland. It will help revolutionise consumer packaging solutions in the UK and Europe by promoting a circular economy in fibre packaging and reducing landfill waste and the release of harmful chemicals into our ecosystem.
“We are delighted to be able to create this forward-thinking environmentally-focused business right here in Belfast, and tap into the local talent while creating job opportunities in an economically deprived part of the city. We thank Invest NI for its continued support, advice and guidance in helping us turn this investment into a reality.”
Mel Chittock, interim CEO of Invest NI, added: “This major investment will bring the former Caterpillar site back to life with a state-of-the-art factory and machinery. 169 jobs will be created in West Belfast across a range of functions including design, printing, production, sales and finance. Once in place, the jobs will contribute over £5.7million annually in salaries to the NI economy. Importantly, there will be opportunities for local people through apprenticeships, training, and re-skilling. This is excellent news for West Belfast and for Northern Ireland.
“Biopax’s proposition in developing polyethylene-free carton board, label and wrap solutions will assist with the drive to a net zero carbon future. A prime example of the Department for the Economy’s 10X Vision in action. Coupling this with the benefits of dual market access which NI manufacturers now uniquely benefit from, will offer companies like Biopax significant opportunities to increase exports to the EU.”