Celebrating a Decade of Japanese Ownership: Honouring Futamura’s Heritage in Wigton
A milestone worth celebrating
Futamura UK recently celebrated ten years of Japanese ownership, marking a decade of investment, innovation and sustainable growth. More importantly, it was an opportunity to celebrate the people, community and shared values that have helped shape the business during that time.
While much has changed over the past decade, one thing has remained constant: a commitment to creating long-term value for employees, customers and the wider community.
A legacy rooted in Wigton
For more than 80 years, the Wigton site has been at the heart of Cellophane™ manufacturing. What began as a pioneering production facility has evolved into a global centre of excellence for renewable and compostable packaging films.
Throughout its history, the site has continually adapted to meet changing customer and market needs, from the development of the world’s original Cellophane™ film to the innovation of NatureFlex™, a leading range of renewable and compostable packaging films.
Behind every product innovation is the expertise, dedication and ingenuity of generations of employees. Their knowledge and commitment have helped establish Wigton as a globally recognised centre of manufacturing excellence while maintaining strong roots within the local community.
A shared philosophy of long-term commitment
When Futamura Group acquired Innovia Films’ cellulose films business in 2016, including the renowned Cellophane™ and NatureFlex™ brands, it brought more than global expertise and investment. It brought a culture centred on long-term thinking, strong relationships and continuous improvement. Founded in Japan in 1947, Futamura Group was built on a philosophy of quality, innovation and contributing positively to society.
These values align closely with the heritage already established in Wigton and have helped strengthen the site’s focus on four core principles:
- Continuously improving products and contributing positively to society through their performance and benefits.
- Recognising that mutual support and teamwork are essential to success.
- Encouraging ingenuity, innovation and proactive thinking.
- Conducting business with honesty and integrity.
Together, these principles have shaped a workplace culture where people, collaboration and shared purpose remain at the centre of decision-making.
Celebrating people, heritage and community
The anniversary celebrations highlighted what truly makes the Wigton site special: its people.
Employees past and present came together to reflect on shared achievements, recognise long service and celebrate the community spirit that has carried the business through decades of change. The event was not only a reflection on the past but also a reminder of the strong relationships that continue to drive the site’s success today.
Speaking from Futamura’s headquarters in Nagoya, Japan, President Nagae-san reinforced the company’s enduring commitment to both its employees and the communities in which it operates:
“Futamura, however, still maintains our founder’s philosophy, that is ‘a company should exist to contribute to the society’, which was a common philosophy among Japanese companies when Futamura was founded.
I mentioned of contribution to the society. It not only means the contribution to the society by providing products which are useful for the society but also the growth and development of the company and plant along with the community where we are.”
His words reflected a belief that has guided Futamura for decades: successful businesses thrive when they grow alongside their people and communities.
A future built on strong foundations
As Futamura in Wigton begins its next chapter under Japanese ownership, the focus remains firmly on the future.
By continuing to invest in people, developing sustainable packaging solutions and strengthening its role within the local community, the business is building on foundations that have served it well for generations.
The products made in Wigton may be recognised around the world, but the site’s greatest strength remains the people behind them. Their commitment, expertise and shared sense of purpose will continue to shape Futamura’s success for many years to come.
To learn more about NatureFlex™ and Futamura, visit us at https://www.futamuragroup.com/ or contact us via info@futamuragroup.com
