Tata Chemicals announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Tata Chemicals Europe (TCEL), will invest €60 million (₹655 crore) in a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical-grade sodium bicarbonate plant in Northwich, UK. The facility, with a production capacity of 1,80,000 tonnes per annum, will significantly expand TCEL’s operations in the region.
According to a regulatory filing, the new plant will triple TCEL’s current capacity in pharmaceutical-grade sodium bicarbonate production. Construction is set to begin in 2025, with production expected to commence by 2027.
The facility will use an innovative patented process, incorporating carbon dioxide captured from energy generation emissions as a primary raw material. This sustainable approach aligns with the rising demand for high-grade sodium bicarbonate in pharmaceutical applications, including the manufacturing of medicines and products for hemodialysis.
As part of the investment strategy, TCEL’s board has approved the closure of chemical production at the unprofitable Lostock plant by January 2025, following required employee consultations under local regulations. This restructuring aims to streamline operations and support the expansion project.
Tata Chemicals Europe is a leading European producer of soda ash, sodium bicarbonate, and salt, serving a wide range of industries, including glass manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food, and animal feed. Headquartered in Northwich, Cheshire, the company operates with a strong commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability.
Tata Chemicals Europe plays a key role in advancing low-carbon technologies, notably as one of the first companies in the UK to implement large-scale carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) at its Northwich site. This initiative aligns with its broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to the UK’s net-zero goals.
The sodium bicarbonate products from Tata Chemicals Europe are especially valued in the healthcare and food sectors due to their high purity and compliance with stringent industry standards. With a focus on sustainable manufacturing practices, Tata Chemicals Europe continues to support critical sectors in the UK and Europe, delivering essential chemical products that meet both high performance and environmental standards.
Tata Chemicals, a part of the Tata Group, is a global leader in the chemicals and materials industry, recognized for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. Established in 1939, the company operates across diverse sectors, including basic chemistry products, specialty chemicals, and consumer products. Its portfolio includes soda ash, sodium bicarbonate, and cement, along with high-value offerings in crop care, nutritional solutions, and advanced materials like lithium-ion battery components.
With a presence in over 40 countries, Tata Chemicals combines world-class manufacturing capabilities with a focus on green technologies, emphasizing carbon capture, circular economy principles, and renewable energy adoption. Through these efforts, the company continues to play a pivotal role in shaping sustainable industrial and consumer solutions globally.
