The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Manufacturing Manufacture of chemicals and pharmaceuticals Manufacture of chemicals and chemical products 20.59 - Manufacture of other chemical products n.e.c.
230 jobs Number of planned job losses
Announcement Date
17 June 2025
Employment effect (start)
17 June 2025
Foreseen end date
31 July 2025
Description
Westlake, an American chemical manufacturer active in the production of epoxy resins, announced the closure of its Pernis plant in the Port of Rotterdam, resulting in the loss of 230 jobs at the site. The company attributed this decision to the uncompetitive cost structure in Pernis, particularly high energy prices, relative to its other European epoxy facilities in Germany and Spain, which will remain operational. This closure follows similar announcements earlier in 2025 by Tronox and LyondellBasell, and reflects wider challenges in the Dutch investment climate, including the nitrogen impasse and grid congestion. Westlake is currently in consultation with trade unions and the works council, and expects to make a definitive closure decision within five weeks (i.e., by late July 2025), with the site shutdown to occur later this year.
Eurofound (2025), Westlake, Closure in Netherlands, factsheet number 202965, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://dev.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/202965.
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