Uzbekistan: Qoraqalpoq Basaltwool has launched a new US$52.4m, 50,000t/yr stone wool insulation plant in Nukus. The project is one of 437 construction sector projects worth a combined US$3.6bn in 2025 – 2026.
France: Saint-Gobain has won Top Employers Institute Global Top Employer 2026 certification, marking an 11th consecutive year as a holder of the award. The producer is one of 17 organisations worldwide to achieve the certification in 2026. Certification is based on the Top Employers Institute’s HR Best Practices Survey, comprised of people strategy, work environment, talent acquisition, learning, diversity, equity and inclusion and wellbeing.
UK: Local development body Ambition North Wales has approved Knauf Insulation UK’s outline business case for €16.6m in funding under the government’s UK Growth Deal for its upcoming 100,000t/yr Shotton mineral wool insulation plant in Flintshire, Wales. The plant will be equipped with a submerged arc furnace. When operational, it will employ 137 people. Local press has reported that the Shotton plant occupies the site of a former Tata Steel facility.
US: Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas named Knauf Insulation's McGregor insulation plant its Outstanding Large Employer in McLennan County at an event on 15 January 2026.
Knauf Insulation North America CEO Matt Parrish said "This recognition reflects our commitment to investing in people, fostering opportunity and creating a culture where innovation and community go hand in hand. We are proud to call Central Texas home and look forward to shaping its future together."
