Ceasing Operations in Sarnia

Dow Chemical Canada Inc. has announced that its Sarnia, Ontario operations would cease all manufacturing activities by the end of April 2009. The decision to stop production at the Sarnia site was precipitated by Dow’s inability to secure any supply of ethylene, the principal feedstock for its Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) unit. Dow was supplied through the Cochin Pipeline, but that pipeline was closed for safety reasons by BP Canada. The operation of the LDPE plant was an economic foundation for the site’s overall competitiveness.

The site’s LDPE and polystyrene units ceased operations in 2006. Operations at the acrylate latex plant will cease by year-end 2008 with the final plant, propylene oxide derivatives, closing by the end of April 2009.

Dow Canada has made a commitment to treat all employees impacted by the decision with compassion and respect.  The reduction of the site’s employees and contract workers will coincide with the phased cessation of production. A variety of options, including early retirement provisions, redeployment to other Dow locations, and the creation of home offices, have been used to address individual employee situations.

Dow Sarnia will continue to meet its community, environmental and business obligations as we work to bring operations to a close. Our company’s roots run deep in the Sarnia-Lambton community and together we share a 65-year history.

If you have questions or comments about the closure of Sarnia operations, please contact Public Affairs at 1.519.339.3196 or 1.800.361.6650.