Sarah Jones MP, Minister of State with joint responsibilities across the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) visited Glass Futures today to spotlight the critical role national assets play in delivering the UK's Industrial Strategy and net zero ambitions.

Glass Futures, a world-leading centre of excellence in glass manufacturing and innovation, exemplifies how collaboration between government, industry, and academia can accelerate clean growth, drive regional economic development, and support the UK's global competitiveness.

Minister for Industry, Sarah Jones, said: "The Glass Futures facility is an innovative example of how we can decarbonise industry, providing proud manufacturing communities with good jobs and skills for working people. Through our modern industrial strategy, we are advancing clean technologies of the future in places like St Helens - all part of our mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower."

The visit underscored how Glass Futures aligns the UK's Modern Industrial Strategy, specialising in the scaling of innovation to create lasting impact. By fostering cutting-edge research and innovation, and acting as a demonstration platform for next generation technologies in an industrial application, the centre is helping to decarbonise manufacturing while creating high-quality jobs and skills in the North West and beyond.

Dr Sarah Harrold, Head of Government and Strategy Engagement at Glass Futures, commented:
"Glass Futures is a living example of what's possible when government, industry, and academia collaborate. Our model accelerates innovation, aligns research with real-world industrial needs, and creates a scalable blueprint for other sectors. We're proud to be helping shape a cleaner, more competitive future for UK manufacturing and beyond."

Cllr Kate Groucutt, Deputy Leader of St Helens Council, added: "We are delighted to continue our support for Glass Futures and witness their dedication to innovation and clean technology. Their presence in St Helens reinforces our borough's position as a hub for advanced manufacturing innovation and sustainable growth, and we're proud to be part of this journey toward a greener, more prosperous future for industries."

The visit also highlighted the importance of a sustainable green transition—ensuring that workers and communities are supported as the UK moves toward a low-carbon economy. Through its collaborative model, Glass Futures is not only advancing technology but showing how public-private partnerships can enhance the resilience of critical industries within the UK.

Published: 24-07-2025