Styrolution has announced that it has taken the decision to close one of its facilities in Sweden in order to better focus on its business in the EMEA region.

The organisation stated on November 10th 2014 that it will be shutting down its 80 kilotonne polystyrene production site in Trelleborg, which has a staff of 51, with operations to cease by the end of the year.

Styrolution will continue to serve customers from its polysturene facilities in Antwerp, Belgium, and Wingles, France, ensuring the same quality, reliability and service standards.

Kevin McQuade

Kevin McQuade, President EMEA, Styrolution

Kevin McQuade, President EMEA, Styrolution, commented: "The polystyrene market in Europe has been characterised by decreasing demand, overcapacity and underutilisation. These market dynamics have also affected Styrolution's polystyrene business in the region, making it necessary for the company to take this difficult step announced today.

"We acknowledge the impact this decision will have on our colleagues in Trelleborg who have made an outstanding contribution to the company. Styrolution remains fully committed to its polystyrene business and we are confident this measure will further strengthen our leading position in this important product segment in the region."

The closure forms part of Styrolution's strategy to galvanise its polystyrene business's sustainability in the EMEA region by enhancing cost structures and maximising its output in Antwerp and Wingles. Polystyrene is a "strong pillar" in Styrolution's portfolio, forming a key part of the company's Triple Shift growth strategy which calls for a focus on styrenic specialties and ABS Standard, in addition to emerging markets and higher-growth industries.