The management of Alphacan, an Arkema subsidiary, yesterday presented to the Central Works Council a draft reorganization plan to improve the Company’s competitiveness by optimizing its structures and reducing its operating costs.

A specialist in the extrusion of plastics, primarily PVC, Alphacan produces pipes and profiles for the construction and public works markets. In these highly competitive markets, the progress achieved and the ongoing improvement in competitiveness will allow Alphacan to secure a long-term standing among other producers.

The cost-cutting plan presented by Alphacan concerns its headquarters in La Celle Saint-Cloud (Yvelines) and its Gaillac plant (Tarn) in France. It essentially entails the rationalization of support functions at both these sites by streamlining the operation of the teams and adapting their organizational structure accordingly.

The implementation of the plan, which should result in the loss of 15 posts at the La Celle Saint-Cloud headquarters and a further 14 at the Gaillac industrial facility, is subject to the preliminary legal information and consultation process involving the trade unions. Alphacan is committed to taking the necessary measures to find solutions for every staff member concerned by this plan, in particular through internal or external redeployment.

A global chemical company and France’s leading chemicals producer, Arkema consists of three strategically related businesses: Vinyl Products, Industrial Chemicals, and Performance Products. Arkema reports sales of 5.7 billion euros. Arkema has 15,200 employees in over 40 countries and 6 research centers located in France, the United States and Japan. With internationally recognized brands, Arkema holds leadership positions in its principal markets.