Futamura, a privately-owned Japanese manufacturer of cellulose and polymeric films for the packaging market, has has completed its acquisition of the Innovia Films cellulose business.

The acquisition positions Futamura as the world’s leading manufacturer of cellulose film and includes the market leading brands of NatureFlex compostable films and Cellophane.

Futamura will provide over 400 jobs at both the manufacturing sites in Wigton, Cumbria, UK;  Tecumseh, Kansas; and global commercial offices. The two production sites, along with sales teams in the Americas, Asia and Europe, complement Futamura’s existing sales team and production site in Ogaki, Japan, further strengthening the company’s growth plan and creating a strategic global footprint for an improved continuity of supply.

Keith Fell has been appointed as General Manager of Futamura’s European operations. Fell has 44 years in the cellulose films industry, having previously worked for Innovia Films.

“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,” Fell says. “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.”

Futamura Chemicals Co.is a major producer of plastic and cellulose films. Following the acquisition of Innovia Films cellulose business, Futamura has a global footprint with production sites in the UK, USA and Japan. It holds a leading global position in the markets for renewable and compostable packaging films and cellulose casings. Worldwide Futamura employs some 1500 people.