Evonik, a manufacturer of specialty chemicals, has revealed intentions to eliminate 3,200 positions worldwide from 2027 to 2029, with 2,150 of these reductions taking place in Germany. This choice arises from the unpredictable global political landscape, sluggish economic progression, and rising international competition. Christian Kullmann, the CEO, highlighted the necessity for Evonik to enhance its standing in such conditions. To this end, Evonik plans to concentrate on efficiency improvements, digital transformation, outsourcing, and possibly relocating operations to regions with lower costs.
The firm will also discontinue its global polyester operations, shutting down its facility in Witten, Germany, which will impact 266 roles, in addition to 45 cutbacks in Marl, Germany, and 35 in Shanghai, China. Evonik contends that the polyester division has faced losses for several years.
These job reductions supplement an ongoing restructuring initiative that initiated in 2023, targeting a decrease of 2,800 jobs by 2026 to realize €400 million in yearly savings. Evonik intends to carry out these cuts in a “socially acceptable” way through voluntary redundancy, natural attrition, and retirement, steering clear of enforced layoffs.