Columbian closes two reactors at Proctor carbon black plant

Marietta, Georgia - Columbian Chemicals Co. has announced plans to decommissioning two of the four carbon black lines at its plant Marshall Plant in Proctor, West Virginia with the loss of 15 jobs.

Columbian, an employer in Proctor since 1972, said it remains committed to the long-term viability and profitability of the Marshall Plant and regrets that the decommissioning of these two units.

The two units will be shut down separately, with the first unit scheduled for May 1 and the second for July 1. The 15 affected employees will be offered severance and company-paid benefits, as well as outplacement assistance.

The company said its decision was based on its ability to increase production at another of its US carbon black facilities to make up for some of the lost production capacity, as well as the need to improve the overall cost structure of the facility.

In a statement, the comapny said, "the carbon black industry continues to be negatively impacted by the unprecedented rise in raw materials and energy costs, and, while there is growth in overall tire demand in North America, increased imported tires are limiting the overall growth rate for carbon black products. The company anticipates that these changes will transform the Marshall Plant into a leaner, more efficient carbon black facility that will enable Columbian to continue offering a high level of service to its customers."

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Press release from Columbian