ExxonMobil closing chemicals production unit in France

Nanterre, France – ExxonMobil Chemical is to closing the primary chemical production unit at its Gravenchon site in France, reporting that the unit has lost over €500 million since 2018.

The plan, presented 11 April to employees involves shutting down the steam cracker and related derivatives units and logistics facilities.

Full closure of the facility in Port-Jerome-sur-Seine, Normandy, is expected to impact 677 jobs, which will be reduced over time through 2025.

The company said it plans to close associated buildings, de-commission equipment and, over time, fully remediate the site.

The facilities being closed are understood to include units for the production of ethylene and propylene as well as a butadiene plant.

In its statement 11 April, ExxonMobil Chemicals said: “Despite efforts to reduce costs and improve the site’s economics, it is not competitive in the market.

“The configuration of the steam cracker, its small size compared to newer units, high operating costs in Europe, and higher energy prices make it uncompetitive.”

The Esso Gravenchon refinery at Port-Jerome-sur-Seine will continue to operate and supply France with fuels, lubricants, base stocks and asphalt.

The restructuring plan is subject to relevant government approvals, and the closure is expected in 2024.