Dow is slashing 800 jobs in Europe. The company plans to shut three of its chemical plants in the region. This decision comes as Dow battles high energy costs, poor demand, and strict EU rules.
The company made the announcement on Monday. It said the closures are part of a bigger cost-saving strategy. Dow wants to remove older, expensive, and energy-hungry parts of its European operations.
What’s Getting Shut?
Here are the three sites Dow will close:
- Ethylene cracker in Böhlen, Germany
- Chlor-alkali and vinyl assets in Schkopau, Germany
- Basics siloxanes plant in Barry, UK
These are upstream plants. They are part of the early stages of chemical production. Dow says these sites are no longer worth keeping, as they cost too much to run.
Why Europe Is a Problem
Europe’s chemical industry is under pressure. Energy prices are rising. Demand is low. And environmental rules are getting tighter. Many global chemical companies are now rethinking their plans in Europe.
Dow had already started reviewing its European assets last year. Now, it’s taking action.
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Job Cuts and More
The 800 job cuts are part of a larger trend. In January, Dow had already announced 1,500 job cuts globally. These cuts are all tied to Dow’s $1 billion cost savings plan.
Right now, Dow has around 36,000 employees globally. The cuts in Europe will hit Germany and the UK the hardest.
CEO Jim Fitterling said the company is facing “difficult market dynamics” in Europe. He also warned about ongoing demand issues and rising costs.
What Happens Next?
The shutdowns will begin in mid-2026. They are expected to be complete by end of 2027. Demolition and cleanup could go on until 2029.
Dow will also record charges between $630 million and $790 million for things like asset disposal and severance pay.
Trade Worries Add Fuel
There’s more trouble ahead. In April, Dow said it expects continued earnings pressure. The reason? Uncertainty from U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policies. Combined with economic instability, it’s adding more stress to an already tough market.
Dow is doing what many big firms fear: walking away from Europe. It’s bold. It’s costly. But maybe it’s just smart business in today’s world. The question now—who’s next?
