INEOS Inovyn to Acquire UK’s Only EDC Asset at Runcorn

INEOS Inovyn has agreed to acquire the remaining 50% stake in Runcorn MCP Limited, along with the assets and employees linked to ethylene dichloride (EDC) production at Runcorn, UK. The assets are being acquired from Vynova Runcorn Limited, which entered administration in 2025. The transaction remains subject to the completion of required legal and regulatory procedures and is expected to close later this year.

The acquisition will allow INEOS Inovyn to fully integrate the chlor-alkali and EDC value chain at the Runcorn site. The company expects the move to provide greater operational stability, reinforce the long-term viability of the facility and improve security of supply for customers across the UK and other markets.

Runcorn holds strategic importance for the UK’s industrial and public infrastructure. Approximately 98% of the chlorine used in drinking water treatment in the country is supplied from the site. As a result, maintaining reliable chlorine production is essential not only for industrial customers but also for public health and critical national services.

Chlorine and other chlor-alkali products serve as important inputs for several industries. They are widely used in water treatment, food manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, healthcare and construction. EDC is also a key intermediate in the production of vinyl chloride monomer, which is subsequently used to manufacture polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC has applications across construction, infrastructure, electrical products, healthcare and consumer goods.

By bringing the EDC operation together with its existing chlor-alkali activities, INEOS Inovyn aims to strengthen the domestic supply chain and reduce vulnerabilities associated with fragmented ownership. The transaction could also improve coordination between chlorine production and downstream EDC manufacturing, supporting more efficient utilization of feedstock and production capacity.

The deal represents a significant development for the UK’s chemical industry, particularly at a time when maintaining domestic manufacturing capabilities has become increasingly important. The integration could provide greater certainty to customers that depend on chlorine and related chemical intermediates for essential operations.

INEOS Inovyn’s move also highlights the strategic value of maintaining integrated chemical production within the UK. Protecting the Runcorn site could help preserve industrial employment, sustain critical manufacturing infrastructure and support the continuity of essential chemical supplies.

Once completed, the acquisition is expected to strengthen INEOS Inovyn’s position across the UK chlor-alkali and EDC supply chain. The transaction could therefore play an important role in securing the future of Runcorn’s chemical operations while supporting the resilience of industries and public services that depend on these products.

Impact on Product and Chemical Commodity Prices

The acquisition is expected to have a positive impact on the long-term availability and stability of EDC and chlorine supplies in the UK. Full integration of Runcorn’s chlor-alkali and EDC operations could improve production coordination, reduce supply-chain disruptions and provide greater feedstock security. For EDC, improved domestic supply could limit the risk of shortages and moderate price volatility, although stronger demand or plant disruptions could still support prices. Chlorine prices may also remain more stable due to enhanced operational security. Downstream commodities such as PVC and vinyl chloride monomer could benefit from greater feedstock reliability, potentially reducing cost pressures and supporting more predictable pricing in regional markets.