Evonik is set to push ahead with further structural reforms and cost-cutting measures over the coming years as it accelerates its corporate transformation in the face of mounting global pressure.
"The global political situation remains uncertain, and economic growth is persistently weak. At the same time, international competition is becoming increasingly fierce," says Chief Executive Officer Christian Kullmann. "We must become stronger in this environment. Our fate is in our own hands, and we are determined to seize our opportunities."
The measures, agreed by the Executive Board and employee representatives, will impact all business and administrative units worldwide. In total, 3,200 jobs will be eliminated, including 2,150 in Germany, with implementation scheduled from 2027 through the end of 2029.
The company says the reductions will be driven by efficiency gains, digitalization, outsourcing, and potential offshoring, as part of its broader “Evonik Tailor Made” program. A further 2,800 positions are already slated for removal between October 2023 and the end of 2026 under ongoing efficiency initiatives.
"The job cuts will remain socially acceptable moving forward," says Chief Human Resources Officer and Labor Director Thomas Wessel. "The details will be finalized with the social partners in the coming weeks."
At the same time, Evonik is making deeper strategic shifts in its portfolio. In its Custom Solutions segment, the company will shut down its global polyester business in 2027, affecting sites in Witten and Marl in Germany, as well as Shanghai in China.
"Ending the polyester business and closing production is an economically unavoidable step," says Lauren Kjeldsen, who is responsible for the segment on the Executive Board.
"Global competitive pressure, structural disadvantages in Europe, and declining market dynamics mean that none of the alternatives examined would have been economically viable for Evonik in the long term."
The polyester division, which generates around €150 million in annual revenue, has been loss-making for years. The closure will eliminate 266 jobs in Witten, where the site will shut down entirely in 2027, along with 45 positions in Marl and 35 roles in Shanghai.
