Chemical conglomerate Synthomer PLC (Synthomer) is set to close down its styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) latex production facility in Oulu, Finland,by the end of the first quarter of 2021. The decision was agreed upon after lengthy consultations with employees at the facility – it will address declining demand from slower economic activity as well as weak demand for coated graphic paper.
Synthomer produces SBR latex typically for the coating of graphic and packaging paper, as a binder in the production of carpets, and in mattress and footwear applications. It has four SBR production facilities in Europe, in Germany, Italy, Finland and Austria.
While consultations are currently ongoing at the Marl facility in Germany, with an outcome expected in the fourth quarter of this year, Synthomer has assured that it remains committed to the SBR markets in Europe, and will supply its customers from its Central European asset base.