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.
(10 - 33) Manufacturing (20 - 21) Manufacture of chemicals and pharmaceuticals 20.1 - Manufacture of basic chemicals, fertilisers and nitrogen compounds, plastics and synthetic rubber in primary forms 20.15 - Manufacture of fertilisers and nitrogen compounds
200 jobs Number of planned job losses
Announcement Date
8 July 2025
Employment effect (start)
Foreseen end date
Description
Duslo, a major Slovak chemical producer, has officially ended production at the former Istrochem site in Bratislava, closing a chapter of more than 150 years of industrial history. Founded in the late 19th century by Alfred Nobel, the plant was once a hub for explosives, rubber, and tire industry chemicals, operating through wars, political changes, and the breakup of Czechoslovakia.
The Bratislava factory, known locally as “Dimitrovka,” became a 100% subsidiary of Duslo Šaľa in 2005. The company confirmed that manufacturing has been permanently terminated, with around 200 jobs being phased out as equipment is dismantled, pipelines removed, and remaining products shipped out.
Management attributed the closure to sustained financial losses caused by high European energy prices, falling demand from the automotive sector, and strong competition from Asian suppliers whose products are significantly cheaper. These pressures, they said, made continued operation economically unviable.
The shutdown marks one of the most notable industrial closures in the capital in recent years, contrasting with new investment projects elsewhere in Slovakia. While Bratislava’s unemployment rate remains low, the move is expected to affect some local suppliers and services linked to the site.
Duslo has pledged to support affected employees during the transition and to ensure safe decommissioning of the plant, including environmental and safety obligations. The decision, the company stressed, is part of a broader effort to stabilize operations in challenging market conditions that continue to weigh on Europe’s chemical industry
Eurofound (2025), Duslo a.s., Closure in Slovakia, factsheet number 203188, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://dev.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/203188.
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