AGC Chemicals Europe, Ltd. to consult with staff on proposal to cease production at Hillhouse, Thornton Cleveleys
(Thornton Cleveleys, Monday 13 July 2026)
AGC Chemicals Europe, Ltd. has today announced that it is consulting with employees and their representatives about a proposal to cease operations at its manufacturing plant at the Hillhouse Technology Enterprise Zone in Thornton Cleveleys, Lancashire. All roles at the site are affected.
This is a proposal only and no final decision has been made.
This proposal has been made because the site has experienced significant financial and operational challenges, generating a loss for the past four years. Despite continued investment from AGC Inc. and the hard work of Hillhouse employees, the situation is no longer sustainable in the context of a volatile and competitive market.
Our immediate focus is the people who are affected, and to begin a meaningful consultation process. The consultation is expected to take at least 45 days. AGC Chemicals Europe, Ltd. will work closely with unions and employee representatives with a view to seeking their agreement on various matters, including how we might avoid or reduce dismissals and mitigate the impact for employees.
We appreciate these are difficult and uncertain times for our colleagues and we will seek to be informative, responsive and supportive through the consultation period.
AGC Chemicals Europe, Ltd. takes its responsibilities to protect employees, the local community and the environment very seriously. If a decision is taken to cease manufacture, AGC Chemicals Europe, Ltd. remains committed to ensuring compliance with all regulatory obligations, including maintaining the necessary staff for environmental permit compliance and any environmental monitoring that may be required.
If, after consultation, the proposal is taken forward, it is envisaged that production will cease by the end of this calendar year.
Further updates will be provided in line with the consultation process.
Ends
Notes to Editors:
The AGC Chemicals Europe, Ltd. plant at Hillhouse currently has approximately 190 employees and 18 agency staff.
Further information on AGC Chemicals Europe, Ltd can be found on its website – agcce.com
Media Contacts
Please contact AGCCE at agcce.media.enquiries@agc.com or on +44 (0) 1253 209 600.
