Smart Molding International 1-2024

8 smart_molding international 1/2024 newsfeed Entering a new chapter Solvay has successfully completed the spin-off its Specialty activities to Syensqo, a pivotal moment in its rich history. This move marks a significant strategic shift for the Group, positioning it as a frontrunner in essential chemicals on a global scale. It prepares Solvay to enter a new stage of sustainable growth, sharpening its focus on core business areas and reaffirming its dedication to market leadership, decarbonization, and social responsibility. Global Presence and Diverse Customer Base With over 9,000 employees spanning 40 countries, Solvay is committed to offering sustainable products that meet society’s fundamental needs. These include purifying air and water, preserving food supplies, safeguarding health and well-being, creating eco- friendly clothing, enhancing automotive tire sustainability, and contributing to the thermal insulation, cleanliness and protection of homes. Built on strong foundations, the Group has consistently propelled industry progress through ongoing process innovation. With a portfolio encompassing key mono technologies such as soda ash, bicarbonate, silica, hydrogen peroxide, fluorine and rare earths, phenol, and solvents, Solvay serves as a vital and reliable supplier across global markets. The company's unique global footprint and well-balanced presence enable it to cater to a diverse and sustainability- focused customer base. Pierre Gurdjian, Chairman of the Solvay Board, conveyed enthusiasm about the completion of the spin-off, stating, “I'm excited about the successful spin-off, a strategicmove that underscores our commitment to long-term value. This decision reflects our dedication to creating sustained value for stakeholders and ensuring Solvay's ongoing success. Collaborating with experienced and highly qualified directors, we're positioned to closely work with the executive leadership team, establishing Solvay as a leader in essential chemicals. The prevailingmegatrends present compelling opportunities for enhancing value. Leveraging our leadership and insight, we will confidently guide Solvay into the future.” Philippe Kehren, Solvay CEO, added “At Solvay, our mission is to harness the power of chemistry to create sustainable products for the world's most pressing challenges. Our commitment involves introducing process innovations and sustainable products, all while minimizing our environmental footprint. With the simplification driven by the separation, Solvay is poised to reinforce its track record of achieving robust top- quartile industry margins, generating cash, and delivering attractive returns. Our aim is to create enduring value for employees, communities, customers, and shareholders through our integrated approach.” I l h am Ka d r i , S y e n s q o C EO, commented, launching the new company at Euronext, “With our customers at the heart of everything we do, we are ready to discover and unleash breakthrough technologies that will extend our leadership position and as the benchmark for innovation, we will redefine the boundaries of what is possible in materials and consumer applications.” The completion of the partial demerger was effective on December 9, 2023. Solvay and Syensqo started trading as separate entities on Euronext Brussels and Paris under their respective ticker symbols on December 11, 2023. “I would like to take this opportunity to wish our Syensqo colleagues a successful future as a standalone company,” added Pierre Gurdjian. Solvay www.solvay.com Ilham Kadri, Syensqo CEO, launching the new company at Euronext (photo: Syensqo)