Evonik Streamlines Sheet Production

Evonik Cyro announced that following a global supply chain review; it is streamlining its U.S. acrylic sheet manufacturing operation to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.

As a result, Evonik Cyro will source cell cast material for the North American market from operations in Germany, Austria and China. The Sanford, Maine cell cast production line will be phased out in the fourth quarter of 2010.

“Our challenge is to redefine how we approach our manufacturing operations. We remain fully committed to the North American cell cast market and by closing this production line and reducing the complexity of our manufacturing operation we will be able to focus our resources more efficiently and continue to meet the needs of our customers in terms of quality and delivery,” said John Rolando, President of Evonik Cyro.

In connection with the phased closure of the cell cast production line, the company anticipates a reduction of approximately 30 positions at the Sanford site. “All the employees impacted by this decision have worked diligently, safely and professionally,” said Drew Scott, Plant Manager of Evonik’s Cyro site. “While we regret the need to close this production line, we are working hard to minimize the impact on employees,” he added. The Sanford site will continue to manufacture extruded poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) acrylic sheet and PMMA molding compounds. Evonik Cyro continues to invest in new equipment and technology at Sanford to ensure the facility is a key manufacturer of acrylic for the specialty and growth markets.

For more information, Jonathan Evans, Evonik Degussa Corporation, 379 Interpace Parkway, Parsippany, NJ 07054, 800-631-5384/973-541-8106, Fax: 973-541-8445, E-mail: johnathan.evans@evonik.com, Web: www.evonik.com.