Koppers Announces Closure of Phthalic Anhydride Production

Strategic Shift at Koppers Inc.

Koppers Inc., a subsidiary of Koppers Holdings Inc. (NYSE: KOP), has made a significant decision to cease phthalic anhydride production at its Stickney facility by mid-2025. This step aligns with the company's broader strategy to optimize its business portfolio while enhancing free cash flow. The planned closure reflects a critical assessment of the company’s operations, focusing on its core strengths.

Reasons Behind the Closure

The shutdown will affect around 25 employees, and the decision stems from escalating capital expenditures that were deemed unjustifiable based on foreseeable market demands. Additionally, one of the anticipated benefits of this closure is a substantial reduction in emissions, where the site expects to cut certain regulated air pollutants by 50 to 70 percent.

Timeline for Operations

Koppers has outlined a phased approach to this transition. They expect to gradually reduce phthalic anhydride production over a six-month period while managing to fulfill existing contracts for 2025. It's noteworthy that operations related to coal tar distillation at the Stickney site, which produce valuable products such as creosote and carbon pitch, will continue unaffected by this closure.

The Shift from Phthalic Anhydride Production

The Stickney plant initially served to convert naphthalene—a co-produced byproduct of coal tar distillation—into phthalic anhydride, a crucial intermediate for manufacturing plasticizers and resins. However, as the supply of coal tar has dwindled, it has increasingly become less viable for Koppers to maintain this production line. The need for supplementary higher-cost feedstock has rendered operations less profitable, contributing to the decision to phase out this facility.

Financial Implications

This decision carries a financial weight, projecting pre-tax charges between $51 million and $55 million through the end of 2026. Out of this, approximately $28 million is expected as non-cash charges over the next couple of years. The remaining amount will largely address cleaning, waste disposal, and demolition activities necessary for the closure.

CEO’s Perspective on the Transition

CEO Leroy Ball expressed that the closure of the phthalic anhydride plant signals Koppers' commitment to refining its operational focus. "This decision is not made lightly," he notes, stressing that it ultimately serves to enhance the company’s performance and efficiency by shifting resources to more lucrative sectors. He also emphasized the importance of supporting employees during this transitional phase.

About Koppers Holdings Inc.

Koppers (NYSE: KOP) is renowned as a global provider of treated wood products, wood preservation technologies, and carbon compounds. With a dedicated workforce of about 2,200, Koppers plays a pivotal role in maintaining vital infrastructures, including railroad crossties and utility poles. The company prides itself on its commitment to innovation and sustainability, seeking to implement practices that protect the environment while meeting the demands of a changing market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Koppers closing the phthalic anhydride plant?

Koppers is ceasing production due to high capital costs and diminished profitability linked to lower naphthalene availability, impacting the economic viability of the plant.

What financial impact will this closure have?

The closure is projected to incur pre-tax charges between $51 million and $55 million, with a significant portion allocated to non-cash expenses and operational costs related to the shutdown.

How will this affect employees?

Approximately 25 employees will be affected by the closure, and the company is committed to supporting them through this transition.

What will happen to other operations at Stickney?

The closure of the phthalic anhydride plant will not impact Stickney’s coal tar distillation operations, which will continue as usual.

What is Koppers’ long-term strategy?

Koppers aims to focus on enhancing its competitive edge by streamlining its operations and reallocating resources to core businesses and more sustainable markets.

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