December 12, 2007

BASF closes two premix plants in Canada

BASF is announcing the closure of the two premix sites in Canada - Georgetown, Ontario and Abbotsford, British Columbia, effective December 31 this year as part of its divestment plans to sell its premix facilities in eight countries.

The closure will affect 20 employees. BASF will provide an out-placement service assisting them with career transition options.

Following a comprehensive review of the available options, BASF's group vice president for Fine Chemicals said the company has decided to close these North American sites, in order to focus on "core strategic position and strength as an ingredient supplier to the animal nutrition industry." Medley notes that the company wants to strengthen its role as a reliable and quality-focused ingredient supplier, while exiting the "premix arena." BASF is closing these sites as part of the continuing effort to focus on producing and marketing important vitamins, carotenoids, enzymes and organic acids to the nutrition industry, he said.