Evonik to cut 3,200 jobs and shut global polyester business

German chemical group Evonik announced a multi‑year restructuring that will eliminate about 3,200 positions worldwide, including 2,150 jobs in Germany. The plan, to be implemented between 2027 and 2029, also calls for the closure of its global polyester business. Facilities in Witten and Marl in Germany and a plant in Shanghai, China will be affected, with 266 jobs lost at the Witten site, 45 reductions in Marl and 35 in Shanghai. The polyester segment, generating roughly €150 million in annual revenue, has been unprofitable for years. Evonik’s CEO Christian Kullmann said, “The global political situation remains uncertain and economic growth has been low for a long time. We must strengthen our position under these conditions.” The restructuring aims to improve efficiency through digitalisation and outsourcing and to secure the company’s competitive standing in a tightening market.