Group55, whose brands include animology, has announced plans to move to an eight-acre site in Chorley and the creation of 50 new jobs to the region.

The local business, founded 25 years ago, has enjoyed remarkable success in recent years and following a period of significant growth is relocating to expand further their services and manufacturing capacity.

Currently operating across three sites in Buckshaw Village and Leyland, this strategic move will bring all business functions together under one roof. The former Halewood Distillery at Ackhurst Park, Chorley, will undergo a £2 million refurbishment to create one of the largest and most technically advanced manufacturing sites of its kind in the UK. 

Group55 is a leading strategic manufacturing brand partner in the personal care, pet care, and home care sectors, working with brand owners, retailers, and celebrity entrepreneurs. Part of the expansion plans include the installation of a state-of-the-art innovation laboratory from which the very latest beauty and household cleaning products will be developed.

Group55’s commitment to sustainability and providing a world class work environment for their employees is at the core of the refurbishment plans.

Preston-born Stephen Turner (right), founder and Chairman of Group55, commented: “This move marks a transformative milestone for Group55. We are a proud, long-standing, Lancastrian business working with some of the biggest brands and celebrities in the UK and it is exciting to be able to invest further in Chorley to make a positive impact to our customers, employees and our local community."

He continues, "Group55 is a key player in our market sector, employing more than 100 people from the local area. South Ribble has a remarkable wealth of talented, skilled, and hardworking people and our success is due to our amazing team. I am looking forward to seeing more people join us and enjoy the benefits of working with an exciting and growing company.”

Work on the refurbishment has already begun, with a phased relocation to the new site planned throughout 2025.