Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 20, INEOS (London, U.K.) has launched a €250 million investment program to upgrade and modernize its steam cracker at the Lavera site in France. The initiative, supported by the French government and financed through BNP Paribas and ING, focuses on enhancing operational reliability, increasing energy efficiency, and reducing emissions.

The project represents the first phase of a comprehensive regeneration plan aimed at securing the long-term viability of one of France’s largest industrial complexes and protecting employment for thousands of workers.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Founder and Chairman of INEOS, said: “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.”

Sébastien Martin, Minister Delegate for Industry, said: “With this €250 million investment, INEOS reaffirms its confidence in France’s industrial sector. Thanks to the support of the State, Lavera becomes the 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 facility directly employs approximately 2,000 people and supports over 10,000 additional jobs through its supply chain. It produces essential olefins and polymers used in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, transportation, food packaging, renewable energy systems, and advanced technology applications.

Rob Ingram, CEO of INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe, said: “This is a vital investment to support continued operations at Lavera, a vital part of the French and European economy. It is about safeguarding jobs, improving performance, cutting emissions. It’s a strong signal of INEOS’ commitment to France, and to keeping essential production in Europe.”

The modernization program includes equipment upgrades and process optimizations that will deliver immediate improvements in plant availability and environmental performance. Subsequent phases, which are under development, will introduce additional efficiency measures and further emission reductions, subject to continued state partnership.

The Lavera investment demonstrates that targeted collaboration between industry and government can sustain large-scale manufacturing operations while advancing sustainability objectives. The project reinforces the site’s role as a cornerstone of France’s chemical sector and contributes to maintaining essential domestic production capacity for materials required across multiple industries.

Work on the initial phase has already begun, with completion targeted within the coming years. The overall regeneration effort underscores INEOS’s long-term commitment to its European manufacturing footprint and to supporting economic activity in the communities where it operates.