Essity upgrades UK operations with new paper recycling plant

Essity is nearing completion of a new paper recycling plant in Prudhoe, UK, with operations expected to start later this year. The £30 million investment is part of the company’s strategy to modernize its operations and reinforce its sustainability goals.

The new facility will replace the Unifibres operation, which has processed recycled paper in the town for five decades. The Unifibres building, a familiar part of the local landscape, will be demolished. During the transition period, recycled fibre production will be temporarily halted, but Essity has confirmed it has stockpiled enough raw material to ensure uninterrupted production of products such as toilet paper and kitchen towels.

Designed to deliver greater operational efficiency, the new plant will be able to process lower-grade wastepaper, improve the separation of contaminants like metal and plastic, and reduce energy consumption. The facility is also being relocated to a more central area within the industrial complex, further away from the main road.

The recycling operation in Prudhoe plays a key role in Essity’s supply chain in the UK, supplying recycled fibre to the local tissue mill – which produces well-known brands such as Cushelle, Velvet, and Tork – as well as to other company facilities across the country.

Mill Manager Martin Hallissey highlighted that the new plant represents significant progress for both the Prudhoe site and Essity as a whole, bringing operational and environmental improvements. Project Manager Charles Meng added that the investment reflects the company’s commitment to running more sustainable and efficient operations and is the result of the dedication of the entire project team.

The company expects to resume recycled fibre production by the end of 2025, operating fully from the new facility.