- The Gladbeck plant produces 650,000 tonnes annually.
- The site closure affects 279 direct jobs and over 1500 indirectly.
- Phenol and acetone are key products of the site.
- Closure follows a strategic review due to high costs and low demand.
Closure Announcement
INEOS Phenol plans to permanently close its Gladbeck site in Germany, a facility with an annual production capacity of 650,000 tonnes. The decision follows a strategic review prompted by high European energy costs and stringent CO2 tax policies, which have rendered the region uncompetitive against imports and global oversupply.
Impact on Employment
The closure will directly affect 279 employees and indirectly impact over 1500 jobs. The site, operational since 1954, requires significant future investment, which is unsustainable given the current economic climate and reduced local demand for phenol and acetone.
Product Applications
The Gladbeck plant produces phenol and acetone, essential for various applications including automotive light clusters, resins for circuit boards and wind turbine blades, automotive brake pads, and industrial solvents. The decline in local demand has been exacerbated by the exit of several downstream consumers.
Consultation Process
INEOS Phenol will engage in consultations with the works council, employees, customers, and suppliers to ensure a safe and compliant exit from the site. The company remains committed to the phenol business globally, despite the challenges faced in Europe.
