Fermacell has invested €30m in opening a new factory for gypsum fibreboards that will supply the UK market.

The new production plant, based in northern Spain near the Cantabrian capital of Santander, officially opened in reaction to growing market demand and the need to increase the company’s supply to its European distribution hubs. The factory is set to manufacture up to 12m sq m of high-quality gypsum fibreboards.

Fermacell UK general manager Gary Carter said: “Increasing market demand and additional sales potential are the main reasons for expanding the production of gypsum fibreboards and the opening of the new factory. Our international sales offices are faced with extensive utilisation of existing factories and the new Spanish plant will improve supply to the UK and other large construction markets across Europe.

“It is believed that the new factory will contribute to a stronger market positioning as increased supply facilitates growth.”