Mercedes partner INEOS joins COVID-19 relief effort

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British chemical giant and Mercedes F1 partner INEOS is launching a program to mass produce a hand sanitizer product that will be supplied free to hospitals to help COVID-19 relief efforts.

INEOS has announced that it will construct in the next ten days two purpose-built plants in the UK and in Germany that will have the capacity to produce 1 million bottles per month and help alleviate the current and crucial shortage of hand sanitisers across Europe.

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The company also expects to concentrate on meeting the needs of front line medical and care services as well as making the “pocket bottle” hand sanitisers for personal use for people across the UK and Europe

"It is becoming increasingly clear that hand to mouth infection is a significant cause of Corona virus contagion and INEOS is Europe’s largest manufacturer of the core ingredient of hand sanitizer," explained INEOS founder and chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

"We will build two factories in the UK and Germany in 10 days to produce very substantial supplies.

"INEOS is a company with enormous resources and manufacturing skills. If we can find other ways to help in the coronavirus battle, we are absolutely committed to playing our part."

INEOS will provide free issue product for hospitals in addition to supplying schools, places of work, pharmacies and supermarkets.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.