BASF reduce chemical manufacture in US

BASF have announced that they will discontinue textile and leather chemicals manufacturing at their Charlotte, Chesapeake Drive site at the end of 2002. The technical service center, marketing and customer service group will continue to operate from the Charlotte site. 'BASF is totally committed to the market and our customers', said Thomas Sattler, business director performance chemicals for leather and textiles, regional business unit. 'This action was taken due to market conditions and we are confident that the action announced today will strengthen our market position. BASF are committed to remain a provider of Brilliant Solutions for the textile and leather industry'. The closure will result in the loss of 59 jobs and BASF will implement a series of programmes to support affected employees.