BASF Widnes has marked its 75th anniversary, celebrating decades of innovation and leadership in the pest control industry.
Established in 1949, the Widnes site has been at the forefront of developing solutions to help professionals protect health and property from pest-related issues.
The site, now BASF’s Centre of Excellence for Pest Control, produces rodenticides that serve global markets, including the award-winning cholecalciferol-based Selontra. Its journey began with the pioneering use of anticoagulants against rodents, including the commercialisation of Warfarin in 1951 – the first first-generation anticoagulant introduced to the European market.
Since joining BASF’s Agricultural Solutions family in 2008, the Widnes site has continued to lead the industry, driven by a team of 34 dedicated employees. This enthusiastic workforce remains committed to supporting professionals, farmers and protecting global communities, one bait block at a time.
Lyndsay Penn, BASF Widnes site manager, reflected on this significant milestone: “To celebrate we took some time out to reminisce and share stories, issue some commemorative jackets, and enjoyed some home baked cakes.
“As we reflect on our past achievements, we are also excited about the future. We are unique as the only rodenticide manufacturing site in BASF supplying into a global market. It’s exciting to be part of providing leading and reliable pest control solutions worldwide.”
Ian Armstrong, process improvement & control at BASF Widnes, added: “It’s hard to believe the site has been active for 75 years. A wonderful achievement given some of the difficulties faced during that time. We’ve been through buyouts, takeovers, a large fire, but the site is still going strong.
“For me it’s a testament to the staff who have worked here over that period, and who are currently in place. Here’s to the next 75 years!”
Lyndsay Penn concluded with a heartfelt message to the team: “I’d like to express a big thank you to the team. Their hard dedication, and innovative spirit are instrumental in propelling us toward a continued successful future.”