Uniroyal Chemical´s Naugatuck production to cease

NAUGATUCK, Conn. (Sept. 20)—Crompton Corp. will cease production of specialty chemicals at its Uniroyal Chemical facility in Naugatuck in the coming 15 months. The move is part of a recently announced program to trim $60 million in costs by the end of 2002. The closing will eliminate the jobs of about 165 workers; 65 research and development and technical service employees will continue to be located in Naugatuck. The company will consider various programs to help employees whose jobs are affected. The plant makes Uniroyal Chemical products for the company´s rubber, polymer additives and crop protection businesses. Production will be moved to other Crompton locations around the world. Product delivery, quality and service will be uninterrupted. "Overall trends in the global economy and specialty chemical industry have made it necessary for us to consolidate our worldwide manufacturing operations," said Walter Ruck, senior vice president of operations, in a prepared statement. "Demand for the products produced at Naugatuck has been declining in recent years resulting in increased costs," Ruck said. "Although we have continued to invest in Naugatuck, large capital investments would be required to maintain production at this aging plant." The company plans to demolish 35 production buildings on the 87-acre site. Among Crompton's rubber chemicals are Naugard antioxidants, Flexzone antiozonants, Delac and Naugex accelerators, Celogen foaming agents, Sunproof waxes, and miscellaneous specialty products for tires and industrial rubber goods.