Kuraray to set up carbon materials unit in restructuring

Tokyo – Japanese speciality chemicals company Kuraray has announced plans to launch “major organisational changes” as of 2017.

According to a 24 Nov statement, the restructuring move will aim to prepare the company for its next “medium term” management plan in 2018.

The company said it would set up a structure to allow a “smooth start” for its carbon materials business as it targets business reinforcement and expansion following its integration with Kuraray Chemicals on 1 Jan 2017.

Reinforcing R&D and new business development as well as establishing a framework for unified production, sales and development operations in the carbon materials business will be among the changes.

The restructuring will include the merger of Kuraray’s R&D division with new business development division.

Also, under the plan, a new carbon materials division will be established within the Functional Materials Co., and while Kurarary Chemicals Co. will be integrated into other business divisions.