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Welcome to the ALTANA Group in the United Kingdom

Discover our sites, meet our people, and explore career opportunities in an innovative specialty chemicals group built on a strong foundation.

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Who we are

BYK Additives Limited is part of the BYK division, encompassing all functions from sales to production and hosting employees from all of ALTANA's four divisions. Located in Widnes in the northwest of England, the site has a long-standing history in inorganic chemical production dating back to 1923. Since joining the BYK division of the ALTANA Group in 2013, it has become an established center of expertise in specialty chemical manufacturing.

Our Widnes site

We are a global leader in delivering high-performance additives for a wide range of applications, including paper, catalysts, personal care, cleaning agents, and specialty coatings. These products serve diverse industries such as paints and coatings, plastics, as well as oil and gas. We operate on a global scale while maintaining a strong local development focus.

Our Widnes site, located in the northwest of England, is a center of excellence in specialty chemical manufacturing. We supply natural and synthetic clay-based additives to key markets including coatings, consumer care, and other specialty sectors.

Today, approximately 110 employees work at our Widnes facility. We are committed to continuous investment in research and development, driving innovation and expanding the potential applications of our products.

Impressions from our site in the United Kingdom

At our site in the UK, stability meets the opportunity to make a difference, supported by strong teams and close collaboration across the ALTANA Group. 

The BYK site in the UK.
The BYK site in the UK.

What we offer

Working at the ALTANA Group in the UK means benefiting from stability, development opportunities, and a culture built on trust and collaboration. Our benefits include among others:

  • Transportation
    Situated on the outskirts of Manchester and Liverpool with good public transportation links. Free parking onsite (including EV charging points).
  • Health and Wellbeing
    We offer a range of enhanced health and wellbeing benefits designed to support our team every day. This includes access to confidential 24/7 assistance through our Employee Assistance Program, Occupational Health Support, and a Health Cash Plan to help with routine medical expenses. Together, these services promote a healthier, more supported workplace where we can all thrive.
  • Enhanced Pension Contributions and Retirement Support
    Beyond statutory requirements, we offer additional pension contributions as a recognition of service and dedication. This enhanced support reflects our commitment to the long-term financial wellbeing and our shared goal of helping our colleagues build a secure and rewarding retirement.
  • Training and Education
    We’re committed to our colleagues’ continuous growth and development. Through a combination of on-the-job training, funded external courses, and leadership development programs, we provide meaningful opportunities to build skills, expand knowledge, and advance your career at every stage.
  • Inclusive and engaged culture
    We adopt an inclusive, collaborative environment where every voice matters. Guided by our “One Site, One Team” philosophy, we build trust, respect, and teamwork into everything we do—empowering individuals, strengthening our collective impact, and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive together.