Evonik to cut 45 jobs as it shuts polyester unit at Marl chemical park

German specialty chemicals group Evonik Industries will discontinue its polyester business at the Chemiepark Marl site, eliminating 45 positions locally. The closure follows a broader restructuring that aims to reduce the global workforce by 3,200 jobs by the end of 2029, with 2,150 of those cuts already slated for Germany. The polyester segment, which generated about €150 million in annual sales, was described by board member Lauren Kjeldsen as a step that was “alternativlos” due to structural disadvantages in Europe. CEO Christian Kullmann added that “the world‑political situation is uncertain, and economic growth remains weak.” Evonik pledged a socially responsible lay‑off process, including early retirement, natural turnover and redeployment, as emphasized by HR chief Thomas Wessel. The plan builds on earlier announcements that had already earmarked roughly 2,800 job reductions.