The UK petrochemicals sector is a significant contributor to the country's economy, generating over £7.3 billion ($9.2 bnillion) in revenue in 2024, according to a report by consultancy firm Ibisworld. This represents a slight increase from £7.2 billion in 2021. The sector also plays a crucial role in employment, with over 15,800 people working in petrochemical-related jobs, making it one of the major sources of employment in the UK.
On a global scale, the petrochemicals industry is expected to continue its growth trajectory, reaching a market value of over $1 trillion by 2030, according to Statista.com. The increasing demand for petrochemical products, coupled with a decline in the use of fossil-derived liquid fuels in the transportation sector, positions petrochemicals as a leading driver for future oil demand.
Sarens, a renowned company specializing in heavy lifting, engineered transport, and crane rental, has established itself as a key player in the petrochemical sector. With over 60 years of experience in various projects worldwide, Sarens is involved in significant ventures such as the Fawley oil refinery in Southampton, Hampshire, which is the largest and oldest refinery in the UK. The refinery, owned by ExxonMobil subsidiary Esso Petroleum, processes 270,000 barrels of crude oil per day, accounting for approximately 20% of the country's total refining capacity.
According to Andrew Winter, Sarens' UK Country Manager, "It is essential to continue to invest in the installation of new infrastructures to support the high demand and the maintenance of existing ones. We are fully aware of the importance of the petrochemicals sector to the UK economy, that is why we reaffirm our commitment to this industry with over 60 years of international experience. Sarens is becoming a strategic partner of the industry, providing our international experience to help keep UK petrochemical production stable.”
Sarens has already been involved in several significant projects within the UK's petrochemical and energy industry. For example, the company participated in projects at the Hinkley Point C power station, including the installation of turbine generator columns and the lifting of a nuclear reactor using its high-capacity SGC-250 crane, known as "Big Carl." Sarens also provided innovative solutions for the Fawley Refinery, such as a mobile lifting gantry capable of lifting loads up to 1,250 tons.
In the Fawley Refinery's £800 million ($1 billion) expansion project, known as the Fawley Strategy (FAST), Sarens played a crucial role in transhipment maneuvers, transportation, and installation of two new columns weighing up to 1,250 tons. Additionally, Sarens contributed to turnaround and upgrading operations at Essar's Stanlow refinery Block One.
