As 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on a year of significant achievements and milestones. LCM’s global presence has continued to grow, allowing us to work on innovative projects with partners worldwide.

This year marked a leap forward in our expansion plans into the US and EU markets. We’ve also broadened our metal making capabilities to include heavy rare earth elements (REEs). The installation of two new furnaces for processing terbium (Tb) and dysprosium (Dy) represents a major step in supporting applications like high-strength permanent magnets used in EV motors, wind turbines, and defense technologies.

Nationally, we strengthened our advocacy efforts as members of the Critical Minerals Association (CMA) (UK). A few weeks ago, we attended the APPG for Critical Materials at the House of Commons, engaging in vital discussions about the role of critical minerals in the energy transition. We also contributed to flagship papers providing key recommendations to the UK government.

On the education front, our commitment to fostering skills and knowledge reached new heights. Our “Mine to Magnet” school workshop, created in partnership with Xplore! Science Discovery Centre, gained Innovate UK backing and inspired young learners across North West England, North Wales, and London. These workshops are raising awareness of green sector career opportunities and the NdFeB magnet supply chain.

Closer to home, we’re collaborating with Cheshire West and Chester Council on the ORIGIN Ellesmere Port strategy and working with local education providers to shape the next generation of engineers and manufacturers. We’ve also initiated a promising partnership with the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), which we’re excited to develop further in 2025.

Key Announcements of 2024

• LCM, IonicRE, and VAC unite to develop 100% recycled RE magnets.
• LCM signs an MOU with IonicRE to build a sustainable magnet RE supply chain.
• Innovate UK partners with LCM and Xplore! to deliver educational workshops on RE metals for green technology.

Christmas Wishes and Holiday Closure

As we prepare to close for the Christmas break on December 24th and return on January 2nd, we want to take this opportunity to thank all our partners, collaborators, and team members for their invaluable contributions over the past 12 months. From all of us at LCM, we wish you a Merry Christmas and hope you enjoy a well-deserved break with your loved ones.

Here’s to continued collaboration, innovation, and success in 2025!