Kraton operations deemed "essential"

Houston, Texas – The global coronavirus pandemic has had limited impact on Kraton Corp.’s business and results, the US materials supplier announced 30 March.

“Our plants have continued to operate at normal capacities, and our supply chain remains intact, with adequate availability of key raw materials,” said CEO Kevin Fogarty in an update 30 March.

According to the company official, despite some disruptions caused by Covid-19 pandemic in global logistics channels, Kraton has not experienced significant delays in fulfilling customer orders. 

According to Fogarty, under the US Department of Homeland Security guidance issued 19 March, chemical manufacturing sites are considered essential critical infrastructure, and are therefore not currently subject to closure.

In Europe, individual countries have also taken a similar approach to the US, Fogarty added. 

In terms of demand, the company expects its geographic and end market diversification to help it maintain its competitive edge.

“We serve many customers, including those in medical, adhesive and food packaging industries, whose products remain vital in the current environment," added Fogarty.

For the first quarter of 2020, the company expects to report Adjusted EBITDA exceeding the current consensus estimate of approximately $46 million (€42 million).  

Kraton expects to release full results for the first quarter on 29 April.