Convatec, the FTSE 100 medtech company, has announced a £24 million expansion of its wound care facility in Rhymney, South Wales, securing 100 high-skilled jobs. The investment includes a new production line for its innovative Hydrofiber technology, used in advanced wound care solutions to manage complex wounds and improve patient outcomes.
Investment Details and Job Security
The expansion ensures the retention of 100 skilled positions at the Rhymney site, which has operated as a manufacturing hub since 1986. Convatec's other UK facility in Deeside employs around 550 people. The company has invested heavily in UK life sciences, with plans announced last October to invest over £500 million in UK research and development, including a new R&D hub in Manchester in 2028.
Hydrofiber Technology and Global Impact
Hydrofiber is a soft, absorbent material that turns into a gel on contact with wound fluid, creating an optimal healing environment. The Rhymney plant produces 350 metric tonnes of Hydrofiber annually. Nearly 1.5 billion Aquacel dressings, which use this technology, have been sold worldwide over the past 30 years.
Leadership and Political Support
Tanja Dormels, president of 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, commented: "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."
Company Background
Convatec operates globally in advanced wound care, ostomy, continence, and infusion care markets. With a workforce of 10,000 worldwide, the company generated sales of approximately £1.5 billion last year. The Rhymney expansion underscores its commitment to UK manufacturing and innovation in life sciences.
