The brand’s new UK headquarters, Hankook House, was officially opened by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Patron of Transaid, on 17th July 2025. The 357,221 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility features advanced logistics and eco-conscious design, reinforcing Hankook’s continued expansion and long-term commitment to the UK market.
Hankook Tyre UK Marks Grand Opening of New Headquarters with Royal Visit
Hankook Tyre UK proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new UK headquarters, Hankook House, with a special visit from HRH The Princess Royal, Patron of Transaid, on 17th July 2025.
The event marked a significant milestone for the premium tyre manufacturer. The visit reflected its sustained growth and strategic investment in the UK.
Distinguished Guests and Ceremony Highlights
Mr. Chang Yool Han, Managing Director of Hankook Tyre UK, along with distinguished guests welcomed HRH The Princess Royal. This included Mrs. Anne Burnett, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, Mrs. Alison Eastwood, Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council, and Cllr Katie Thurston, Mayor of Daventry. Additionally, the Rt Hon Stuart Andrew, MP for Daventry, and Mrs. Caroline Barber, CEO of Transaid, attended the event.
During the visit, Mr. Jongho Park, President and Chief Operating Officer of Hankook Tyre Europe, and team members introduced themselves to HRH The Princess Royal. They then showed her around the 357,221 sq. ft. advanced facility, where she learned more about Hankook’s innovations in tyre technology and logistics.
The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, formally marking the opening of the new headquarters.
A Strategic Move for Growth, Innovation, and Sustainability
Established in the UK since 1993, Hankook has grown steadily, driven by rising demand for its premium tyres. The opening of Hankook House marks a key milestone in the company’s long-term vision and growth strategy in the UK.
The new facility strategically sits in the heart of the UK’s logistics ‘Golden Triangle’. It offers direct access to the A45, M1, and M45, optimising national distribution and improves customer service. Located near the former site, the move maintains staff continuity while significantly enhancing capacity across the 22-acre facility.
The site reflects Hankook’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, incorporating advanced energy-efficient systems and eco-conscious design. It has achieved a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and EPC rating A. The rating underscores the company’s dedication to minimizing its carbon footprint. What’s more, it also reflects its focus on innovation and operational excellence.
Longstanding Partnership With Transaid
In 2025, Hankook Tyre UK proudly marks 19 years of partnership with Transaid. Transaid transforms lives through sustainable transport solutions. Over nearly two decades, Hankook has actively supported Transaid with various impactful initiatives.
This ranges from donating fundraising prizes and participating in charity cycle challenges. In addition, they funded the production of four locally manufactured bicycle ambulances. These ambulances, made by an organisation employing people with disabilities, deliver vital healthcare access to remote sub-Saharan African communities. To date, Hankook has raised over £136,130 in support of Transaid’s vital work.
Chang Yool Han, Managing Director of Hankook Tyre UK, commented, “The opening of Hankook House marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to the UK market. As demand for our premium products continues to grow, this state-of-the-art facility enhances our logistics capabilities, drives technological innovation, and reinforces our dedication to quality, sustainability, and customer service. We are also proud to continue to support Transaid’s life-saving work and remain firmly committed to advancing safe, sustainable transport solutions both in the UK and globally.”
Caroline Barber, CEO of Transaid, added, “We were honoured to have HRH The Princess Royal officially open Hankook’s new headquarters. Her presence not only marked a special occasion but also underscored the strength of the long-standing partnership between Hankook and Transaid. We are immensely grateful for Hankook’s continued support, which plays a vital role in helping us improve road safety and expand access to healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa.”
