For a couple of years now, rumors have come out of the Lion Elastomers facility on Chemical Row that they might be closing. On October 9 the company announced that they’ll cease operations in Orange by the end of the year.
Lion bought the former Firestone facility in 2019. In a statement the company announced:
“Lion Elastomers, LLC has informed employees, customers, community leaders and other public stakeholders that the Company will cease rubber production at its Orange.
The decision impacts approximately 100 employees (excluding additional contractors) at the Orange site, which has produced butadiene-based elastomers since 1961. North America’s butadiene elastomers market is changing rapidly and profoundly with a marked decrease in demand and profitability. Despite substantial investments over the past five years to improve technical capabilities and product offerings, Lion Elastomers has concluded that ceasing rubber operations at Orange is critical in its strategy to position the company for long-term growth and resilience.
“Since acquiring the site in 2019, Lion has strived to be a good steward in every way for this plant and the community. Winding down rubber production is a decision not taken lightly,” said Bobby Rikhoff, Vice President of Manufacturing for Lion Elastomers. “The Company has explored many options before coming to this decision,” Rikhoff said.
In line with Lion Elastomers’ values, the Company remains committed to supporting its former employees through this challenging time, and remains grateful for all associates’ hard work, dedication, and contributions to the company and facility over its many years in business.”
Social Media