AAK secures £2m to support plant-based oil production in Hull, UK

AAK produces oils for a range of food markets including bakery, confectionery, foodservice, retailers and more. The company was initially founded in Hull as Anglia Oils in 1982 and now employs around 300 people in the city. The company plans to make a significant investment into its site at King George Dock, the Port of Hull, to expand production capacity. The funding, delivered through Humber Freeport’s £25 million seed capital fund, will support the first phase of the investment programme, which is designed to strengthen AAK’s presence in Hull in the long-term.

The plant-based oil refinery produces large volumes of vegetable oils for manufacturers and retail partners, as well as specialised nutrition and personal care brands. According to AAK, its investment in the city will generate a significant additional tonnage of cargo through the Port of Hull each year, enhancing local supply chain opportunities. The investment is expected to reduce scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions at the site by 39% per tonne of oil produced, compared with 2025 levels.

Damian Taylor, AAK’s UK finance director, said: “The investment in our Hull site represents one of the single largest in AAK’s recent history. It will add significant new strings to our bow and enable us to diversify our plant-based oils range and the markets we supply to.” He added: “We’d like to thank Humber Freeport for its support, through the seed capital fund, and for sharing our vision and ambitions for the Hull site. The funding provided valuable support during the feasibility stage of the project, and has enabled us to move forwards quickly and with confidence.”