Huntsman Textile Effects is the leading global provider of high quality dyes and chemicals to the textile and related industries. With presence in 110 countries and 14 primary manufacturing facilities worldwide in twelve countries (China, Columbia, Germany, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Pakistan, Thailand, Turkey, Switzerland, USA), Huntsman TE is uniquely positioned to provide fast and expert technical service.

Huntsman Corporation announced on 27th September 2011, that its Textile Effects (TE) division plans to implement a significant restructuring, including the possible closure of its production facilities and business support offices in Basel, Switzerland, as part of an on-going strategic program aimed at improving its long-term global competitiveness.

The planned restructuring and the possible closures could affect approximately 600 positions in Basel, with potentially 500 job losses and 100 positions moving to other sites across the organization, to build capability closer to customers. In addition, there will be a further 100 new hires added in key markets. The division’s Basel-based Research & Technology department will not be affected by the planned restructuring, as the Business remains totally committed to strengthening its innovation capability. Consultations with labor representatives have commenced and the planned restructuring (including possible closures) are targeted for completion by the end of 2013.

Commenting on the planned restructuring, Paul Hulme, President of the Textile Effects division said, “The textiles market continues its shift to Asia, and we now generate more than 50% of our sales in the region. However, we still have two thirds of our manpower costs in Europe, so we need to re-align our Business to help address this.”

“The planned restructuring build on the difficult, but successful changes undertaken in the last few years to ensure the TE Business is strongly positioned to maintain its leadership position in the textile industry.” Hulme continued. “Let me also emphasize that these moves are designed to leverage the extensive and ongoing investments Huntsman is making to drive further innovation and sustainability in the textile industry.”In case of a possible closure, the transition of production to other Huntsman sites will be carefully phased, ensuring continued product availability and deliveries to customers.