- Total invested €200 million in the Carling site upgrade.
- The transformation took three years, starting in September 2013.
- The site now produces advanced plastics for healthcare and automotive markets.
- The complex includes units for polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene compounds.
Investment and Transformation
Total has completed a €200 million transformation of its Carling – Saint-Avold petrochemical complex in eastern France. The project, announced in September 2013, aimed to upgrade existing facilities and build new, higher value-added units to enhance the site's competitiveness.
Employee Transition
The adaptation of the Carling complex did not involve layoffs or compulsory staff transfers. Each employee was offered a personalized plan, including transfers within the Group, retirement, or assistance to start their own businesses.
Current Capabilities
The Carling complex is now a top-tier polymer production site in Europe. It has increased polystyrene production capacity, upgraded the polyethylene unit for advanced plastics, and built a unit for polypropylene compounds to meet automotive market demand for lighter, fuel-efficient materials.
Hydrocarbon Resins and Logistics
The site also serves as Total’s European center for hydrocarbon resins, housing Cray Valley Europe headquarters and R&D center. New units produce high-value RICON® and KRASOL® resins, and upgrades were made to a unit producing CLEARTACK® resins. To ensure ethylene and propylene delivery after the steam cracker shutdown in October 2015, Total invested in logistics improvements.
Local Support and Competitiveness
Total signed four agreements with French authorities to support local stakeholders. Total Développement Régional provided support to partner companies affected by the site changes. Additionally, the Chemesis association was created to improve competitiveness by sharing services and utilities, enhancing the complex’s ability to attract new businesses.
