On November 12, 2008, Columbian Chemicals announced that it would close its carbon black plant in Marshall, West Virginia on or about January 31, 2009. The move will result in the elimination of approximately 55 jobs. The plant has 50,0000 tonnes/year of capacity, all for carcass grades. In 2006, Columbian removed about 30,000 tonnes/year of tread capacity at the Marshall plant.
In a press release announcing the closure, Kevin Boyle, President and CEO of Columbian Chemicals, stated, “Continued overcapacity coupled with an uncertain business outlook has forced Columbian to reevaluate its assets in North America. We are optimizing our resources during this difficult economic period while at the same time maintaining our focus on our customers. Our remaining plants in North America are well positioned to continue to provide the same high level of service and quality Columbian’s customers have come to expect from our Marshall facility.”
He continued, “Our team in Marshall has worked hard over the last several years to keep the plant operating in a very competitive environment as we have seen demand shift away from North America. The decision to close the plant was difficult due to the impact on our employees, their families and the community.” He indicated that the closure of North American capacity was offset by recent and ongoing expansions in Brazil, Central Europe, and China.
Here is the press release.
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