BASF to close US catalyst manufacturing facility

BASF has announced that in 2021 it will close its manufacturing facility in Erie, Pennsylvania, which produces high-quality and proprietary catalysts used in chemical production – primarily petrochemicals.

BASF says that despite investing significantly to improve assets at the site, its long-term profitable operations are no longer possible. The company therefore made the decision to close the facility based on longer-term business considerations and customer needs.

Most production will cease by the end of 2020, but BASF will continue to fulfil confirmed customer requests through Q1 of 2021. The company expects final decommissioning and demolition through mid-2022.

About 75 positions will be phased out starting from when operations cease in December 2020 and through the decommissioning process. BASF says it will provide severance and outplacement services, including support for employment at other BASF sites.