INEOS Inovyn to acquire remaining Runcorn MCP stake and EDC assets

INEOS Inovyn has agreed to acquire the remaining 50% shareholding in Runcorn MCP Limited, along with the assets and employees tied to EDC production at Runcorn, from Vynova Runcorn Limited, which entered administration in 2025. The deal fully integrates the chlor-alkali and EDC value chain under INEOS Inovyn and is subject to regulatory approvals, with completion expected later this year. The body states that around 98% of the chlorine used in UK drinking water treatment is supplied by the Runcorn site.

Key facts

Market context

Ethylene dichloride (EDC) is a key intermediate made by chlorinating ethylene, and most of it is converted into vinyl chloride monomer, the building block for polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC demand comes largely from construction, including pipes, cables, window profiles and flooring, along with packaging and medical goods. Chlorine is produced alongside caustic soda through chlor-alkali electrolysis, so the two products are tied together in a single value chain. Chlorine is widely used in water disinfection and in the manufacture of many other chemicals, which makes stable local supply important for utilities and industrial users. When producers integrate upstream and downstream assets under one owner, they typically gain more control over feedstock, plant utilisation and delivery reliability, while reducing dependence on third parties that may be financially weak. Buyers of EDC, chlorine and PVC often watch such consolidation for effects on regional availability and pricing.

Source: official release on ineos.com. Summary and context written by Market Krystal.