AAK secures backing to add ‘new strings’ in Hull

A Hull manufacturer is expanding its production capabilities with support from a £2 million funding boost designed to strengthen its long-term presence in the city.

Plant-based oils producer AAK has secured the backing from Humber Freeport’s £25 million seed capital fund towards the first phase of an investment programme at its King George Dock site.

AAK, which has operated in Hull since being founded as Anglia Oils in 1982, employs around 300 people and runs one of the UK’s largest plant-based oils refineries.

Its products are supplied to food manufacturers, retailers, bakeries, confectioners and hospitality businesses, as well as special nutrition and personal care brands.

Bosses say the investment will increase production capacity and capability while generating additional cargo volumes through the Port of Hull, creating further opportunities for regional supply chains.

It is also expected to reduce Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions intensity at the site by 39 per cent per tonne 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.

“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.”

AAK is one of seven projects backed through Humber Freeport’s seed capital fund.

The £25 million programme is expected to unlock more than £170 million of private investment, with other recipients including Ideal Heating, CATCH and Associated British Ports.

Simon Green, chief executive of Humber Freeport, added: “AAK’s investment in Hull is the latest success story for a business which has made a significant contribution to the region’s economy for more than four decades.

“We’re delighted to have contributed, through the Freeport seed capital fund, to an investment which will both create new business opportunities in the Humber, and safeguard existing operations.

“AAK supports a food manufacturing sector which is vital to the Humber’s economic prosperity and future.

“Our seed capital fund is designed to support the feasibility of projects such as this – stimulating growth, driving new innovation and product development, and promoting sustainability.”

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