November 20, 2025 [Global Flow Control]- Ineos has announced a €250 million investment programme to regenerate and modernise its cracker at Lavera—an important step to secure the future of one of France’s most significant industrial sites and protect thousands of jobs.
Supported by the French Government and financed through BNP Paribas and ING, the investment will enhance reliability, improve efficiency, and reduce emissions. This marks the first phase of a broader regeneration strategy aimed at strengthening the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the Lavera complex.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Ineos Founder and Chairman, stated:
“France is showing real industrial leadership. The government understands that without a strong manufacturing base, Europe will falter. Ineos is investing in Lavera because we believe in the site, its people and its future — but Europe must wake up. High energy prices, over-regulation and punitive carbon costs are destroying its industrial backbone. If politicians want jobs, investment and energy security, they must create the conditions for industry to compete.”
Sébastien Martin, Minister Delegate for Industry, added:
“With this €250 million investment, Ineos reaffirms its confidence in France’s industrial sector. Thanks to State support, Lavera becomes a symbol of a nation that chooses to produce, innovate and invest on its own soil. This is how we strengthen our independence, our competitiveness and our jobs.”
The Lavera site employs around 2,000 people directly and supports over 10,000 additional jobs through its supply chain. It produces essential raw materials used across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, transport, food packaging, clean energy, and advanced technologies.
Rob Ingram, CEO of Ineos Olefins & Polymers Europe, highlighted the importance of the initiative:
“This is a vital investment to support continued operations at Lavera, a critical part of the French and European economy. It’s about safeguarding jobs, improving performance, and cutting emissions. It sends a strong signal of Ineos’ commitment to France and to keeping essential production in Europe.”
Europe’s chemicals and polymers sector continues to face intense pressure from energy prices that are three to four times higher than those in China and the United States, along with carbon costs unique to Europe. These challenges have already resulted in multiple plant closures across the continent. Ineos cautions that without action to restore industrial competitiveness, Europe risks accelerated decline.
The Lavera regeneration programme represents a strong vote of confidence in France and European manufacturing—demonstrating that with the right governmental support, industry can remain competitive, decarbonize, and sustain the jobs and products Europe relies upon.
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