- Sales dropped 12.6% to EUR 1.47 billion in Q2 2025.
- Net financial debt reduced by 18% to EUR 2.069 billion.
- Closure of hexane oxidation facility at Krefeld-Uerdingen by Q2 2025.
- Widnes site to shut down in 2026 due to high costs.
Financial Performance
In Q2 2025, sales decreased by 12.6% to EUR 1.47 billion, influenced by portfolio and volume effects. EBITDA pre exceptionals fell 17.1% year-on-year to EUR 150 million. Despite challenging conditions, the company achieved a positive free cash flow of EUR 31 million and reduced net financial debt by 18% to EUR 2.069 billion.
Guidance Adjustment
Due to ongoing weak demand, the company adjusted its fiscal year 2025 guidance, now expecting EBITDA pre exceptionals between EUR 520 million and EUR 580 million, down from the previous range of EUR 600 million to EUR 650 million. This revision includes a EUR 10 million impact from supply restrictions.
Portfolio and Debt Management
On April 1, 2025, the company sold its Urethane Systems business to UBE Corporation, marking a shift towards specialty chemicals. Proceeds from the sale were used to redeem a EUR 500 million bond, significantly reducing financial debt.
Production Network Optimization
To counteract global demand weakness, the company is optimizing its production network. The hexane oxidation facility at Krefeld-Uerdingen closed by Q2 2025, and the Widnes site in the UK will shut down in 2026 due to high costs. Efficiency improvements are planned for bromine production at the El Dorado site in the USA, aiming for annual savings of EUR 50 million by the end of 2027.
Segment Performance
The Consumer Protection segment saw a 12.8% sales decline but improved EBITDA due to a better product mix and cost savings. Specialty Additives and Advanced Intermediates segments experienced sales and EBITDA declines, impacted by weak demand and higher costs.
