Sky Chemicals set to clean up with funding boost

A South Yorkshire cleaning products manufacturer is expanding its operations following investment to support innovation and scale production.

Sky Chemicals, based in Sheffield, has secured £200,000 from Finance Yorkshire’s loan fund to support its move to larger premises on Kettlebridge Road. 

The company specialises in cleaning solutions using peracetic acid, an alternative to chlorine that offers strong antimicrobial performance while breaking down into non-toxic by-products. 

Its products are already used by NHS hospital trusts for infection control.

Sky Chemicals has worked closely with Sheffield Hallam University to develop a more stable powdered form of peracetic acid, while ongoing collaboration with University College Hospital London supports clinical testing.

Bosses say the relocation provides increased factory and storage capacity, alongside a dedicated laboratory to accelerate product development.

They add the business is targeting further growth through exports, including expansion in international healthcare markets and the food sector, with plans to create additional roles as demand increases across its eight-strong team.

Mike Joseph, Sky Chemicals’ founder, said: “Traditional chlorine-based cleaning products have limited effectiveness. 

“Using peracetic acid is safe and more efficacious while being environmentally friendly and sustainable.

“Finance Yorkshire’s investment is helping us to improve our business potential and attract new customers.”

The investment forms part of Finance Yorkshire’s wider support for regional SMEs, with the organisation continuing to back growing businesses across the Yorkshire and Humber region.

Alex McWhirter, chief executive of Finance Yorkshire, added: “These are three strong investments by Finance Yorkshire and demonstrate our support for the SME base in South Yorkshire and its local economy.

“Sky Chemicals’ success showcases the strength of innovation in new product development being carried out between the region’s pioneering companies and world-leading universities.

“We are pleased to support Sky Chemicals relocation in South Yorkshire which will enable the business to expand, particularly into new sectors both in the UK and globally.”

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