Clariant announce plant and job cuts

The proposals are the first conclusions of Clariant's 'Global Asset Network Optimization' (GANO) project, which comprises a detailed evaluation of Clariant's entire production network. The sites nominated for closure are Huningue, France; Pontypridd, UK; CIVAC, Cuernavaca in Mexico; and parts of two plants at Clariant sites in Germany, at Gendorf and Frankfurt. In addition, Clariant will now initiate an evaluation of all strategic options for its site in Onsan, South Korea.
Approximately 570 jobs worldwide will be affected by the proposals. Clariant has entered into consultation with employee representatives and authorities in the affected countries. The company is committed to treating all employees in a fair and transparent manner.
Project GANO is part of a wider restructuring program at Clariant aimed at closing the gap the company has compared to peers regarding several key performance indicators. The Project addresses the structural deficits of Clariant's production network as well as long term overcapacity issues. It will continue to identify further optimisation potential.
Full implementation of the initial Project GANO proposals affecting the nominated sites, including transferring production to other parts of the Clariant site network, is expected to be completed between 2011 and 2013. The restructuring costs amount to approximately CHF 150 million (€99 million), the vast majority of which will be made in 2009 and 2010.
Clariant ceo, Hariolf Kottmann commented: ‘As we have stated 2009 and 2010 will be years of restructuring for Clariant. Project GANO is a key component of that process. Once completed, it will significantly improve the efficiency of our production network and increase Clariant's competitiveness.'

Specific information on how the cuts will affect the leather chemicals business to follow.