Why it matters: The £45 million investment by Assan Panel represents a significant boost for Freeport East and green industrial growth in the East of England, with the facility expected to create local jobs and strengthen regional supply chains.
The big picture: The groundbreaking follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Freeport East and Assan Panel in March and coincides with further Government progress on UK-Turkey trade talks.
By the numbers: The manufacturing hub will be fully operational by February 2026 and forms part of Gateway 14, which is East Anglia's largest business park providing 2.36 million sq. ft. of accommodation.
What they're saying: "Breaking ground on our new facility at Gateway 14 is an exciting moment for Assan Panel and our future in the UK," said Ihsan Tolga Akar, Managing Director of Assan Panel companies.
"This investment reflects our long-term commitment to sustainable manufacturing and to supporting the UK's green industrial transition. The region offers a strong strategic fit for our business - combining clean energy potential, export access, and a skilled local workforce."
The details: The facility will produce energy-efficient insulation and façade systems for UK and wider European markets, with extensive use of solar power supporting Freeport East's campaign to boost regional rooftop solar adoption.
Sir Christopher Haworth, Chair of the Board at Gateway 14, said: "We are delighted to see another high quality development progressing at Gateway 14, hot on the heels of the Skills and Innovation Centre which is already under construction."
"We have set the highest of standards on sustainability to attract like-minded international investors who want to use our strategic location to serve UK and international markets."
Steve Beel, CEO at Freeport East, added:
OpinionAssan Panel’s groundbreaking is a powerful endorsement of what Freeport East can offer to businesses - a platform for international investment, low-carbon innovation, and regional growth. Their commitment to extensive rooftop solar production also shows how Freeport East is serious about delivering clean energy innovation that delivers financial benefits for businesses. Our upcoming solar campaign will build on this momentum by unlocking the renewable potential of unused commercial roof space across the region.
For context: Freeport East is one of 12 freeports in the United Kingdom, covering over a thousand square kilometres stretching from Felixstowe and Harwich through to areas including Stowmarket and Woodbridge.
The freeport status offers tax reliefs and simplified customs arrangements to businesses, with Gateway 14 rapidly becoming a hub for manufacturing, logistics, and R&D firms.
The bottom line: Freeport East projects it will create 13,500 new jobs and generate a Gross Value Added of £5.5 billion over 10 years, with Assan Panel's investment demonstrating the region's growing appeal as a platform for international investment and low-carbon innovation.
