Futamura Chemicals (Nagoya / Japan; www.futamura.co.jp) has completed its acquisition of the cellulose business of Innovia Films (Wigton / UK; www.innoviafilms.com) as it continues to focus on its polymer films and banknote businesses. The deal was originally announced in April (see Plasteurope.com of 14.04.2016).

Futamura said the acquisition positions it as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of cellulose film and incorporates the market leading brands of “NatureFlex” compostable films and “Cellophane”. It includes manufacturing sites in Wigton, Cumbria / UK and Tecumseh, Kansas / USA, along with over 400 jobs at the manufacturing sites and global commercial offices.

Keith Fell who has been appointed general manager of Futamura’s European operations and who was previously an employee of Innovia Films, said: “I am delighted to take on this role for Futamura who are passionate about investing in the long term future of the global cellulose business. The acquisition is the perfect marriage; we bring with us a wealth of expertise and knowledge of sustainable, compostable films and our cellulose production facilities complement Futamura’s strong manufacturing capabilities."