Dow closure in Schkopau: 600 jobs in danger - what for the region now?

Dow closure in Schkopau: 600 jobs in danger - what for the region now?

In a worrying development, the US chemical group Dow has announced the closure of production parts in its works in Schkopau (Saxony-Anhalt) and Böhlen (Saxony). This affects a total of 600 employees by the end of 2027, including 100 in Schkopau. This measure hits waves in the region, which is due to the closures of chlorine alkaline and vinyl systems. These factories play a crucial role in the regional economy, and the word "closure" provides concerned faces for many of those affected, as [MDR reports] (https://www.mdr.de/nachrichten/Sachsen-Anhalt/saalekreis/chemiekonzern-dow-schliessungen-schkopau-boehlen-104.html).

The current closing plans of DOW are the result of structural problems on the European market, high energy and operating costs as well as falling demand in central industrial sectors. Works councils of both locations have recently met with representatives of the ministries and chemical associations to develop ideas for the further use of the locations without Dow, such as [Halle spectrum describes] (https://hallespektrum.de/aktuelles/dow-schliesst-chemieanlagen-in-schkopau-550-arbeitsplaetze-in-hid

focus on existing jobs

Dieter Macke, the works council chairman, leaves no room for illusions if he emphasizes that these closures are essential. Instead of setting up at the reverse, the focus is now on securing and creating new jobs. "We have to find partners who can plan sustainable productions such as hydrogen or hydrochlorynthesis," emphasizes Macke and refers to the importance of these raw materials for the chemical industry. The economic feasibility of such concepts is currently being examined.

The closure announcement is perceived as a warning signal for the entire region. Dow, an important employer in the Saalekreis, has announced that it will adapt capacity to minimize trade risks and remain competitive. It remains to be seen how the state government of Saxony-Anhalt reacts to this situation, since no official statement on the factory closings has so far been published. Unions and works councils urgently call for a “rescue dialogue” between the country, the federal government and the top of the group to find possible alternatives to closure.

The future of the works

While other branches of production in Schkopau, Leuna and Böhlen are initially preserved, the future of the affected facilities remains uncertain. The closings are not only a personal tragedy for the employees concerned, but also have an impact on the entire region that is dependent on the chemical sector. The continuing challenges in the industry show that there is a need for action to ensure competitiveness in the long term.

The coming months will decide whether and how the region can react to this difficult situation. It remains to be hoped that solutions will be found through the efforts of works councils and unions to save jobs and create new perspectives.