Medtech giant Convatec unveils £24m production expansion at its Rhymney plant

The investment secures 100 jobs at its wound care facility

Medtech giant Convatec has unveiled a £24m expansion of its wound care facility at Rhymney in South Wales in an investment that secures 100 high-skilled jobs.

The FTSE 100 listed company, whose other UK manufacturing facility is in Deeside where it employs around 550, has launched a new production line for its innovative wound care technology Hydrofiber.

Used in advanced wound care solutions the technology helps clinicians manage complex wounds and improve patient outcomes. Almost 1.5 billion Aquacel dressings have been sold worldwide leveraging the technology over the last three decades.

The expansion also reflects Convatec’s ongoing commitment to the UK life sciences sector. Across its Deeside and Rhymney operations the company continues to invest in the skills, infrastructure and innovation needed to support patients living with chronic conditions around the world.

Last October, Convatec announced plans to invest more than £500m in its UK research and development activities, including establishing a new state-of-the-art R&D hub in Manchester in 2028.

Tanja Dormels, president, advanced wound Care at Convatec,said: “For nearly four decades, our Rhymney team has built deep expertise and world-class manufacturing capability, and this expansion is a testament to their skill, dedication and pride in serving patients.

“By strengthening production in the UK, we can reach more people around the world with trusted wound care solutions, while keeping that expertise firmly rooted in Rhymney and the wider UK life sciences ecosystem.”

Nick Smith, Labour MP for Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney, said: “The completion of Convatec’s multi-year investment of over £24m is a significant vote of confidence in UK and Welsh manufacturing and in the talented people who work at this site.

“Convatec is one of many firms supporting a stronger future for the life sciences sector in Wales, which in turn is benefiting patients across the UK. I was delighted to be here to mark this milestone with the team.”

The Rhymney site has operated as a manufacturing hub since 1986. It produces 350 metric tonnes of Hydrofiber annually, a soft, absorbent material that transforms into a gel on contact with wound fluid, creating an optimal healing environment.

As well as solutions for advanced wound care, Convatec, also operates globally in the ostomy, continence and infusion care markets. It has a 10,000 strong global workforce and generated sales last year of around £1.5bn.