In Krefeld-Uerdingen, the chemical company Venator is closing its site within the Chempark at the end of May, after the insolvency administrator failed to find a buyer and production there had already been halted since September 2025. Consequently, more than 380 employees will lose their jobs. This brings to an end a months-long search for a viable solution for the site. The decisive factor was the failed sales process. For the workforce, therefore, the primary remaining option is a transfer into a transitional employment company. (wdr: 20.05.26)
Failed Sale Ends Hopes for Continuation
The site had been considered at risk for months, as Venator lacked a stable outlook following its insolvency. Consequently, the insolvency administrator sought investors. However, these discussions failed to result in a viable agreement.
With the failure of the sale, the basis for continuing operations in Krefeld-Uerdingen has ceased to exist. Consequently, the facility is scheduled to close at the end of the month. At the same time, this decision deals a blow to a chemical industry site with a long-standing tradition in the Lower Rhine region.
Production Had Already Been Halted Since September
For many employees, the shutdown does not come as a complete surprise, as production had already been suspended since September 2025. As a result, the site had largely lost its industrial function even before the final decision was made. Furthermore, without ongoing production, a crucial foundation for potential investors was missing.
In Krefeld, Venator is part of the ecosystem surrounding the Chempark Uerdingen. In this environment, any major cutback has direct repercussions for jobs, suppliers, and regional industrial expertise. Therefore, the closure entails not only operational consequences but also carries significant weight for Krefeld as an industrial hub.
Transfer Company to Support Employees
For the affected employees, a transfer company is intended to facilitate the transition. It provides assistance in the search for new employment opportunities. At the same time, it can consolidate training and job placement services.
However, this measure cannot prevent job losses. Its purpose is to cushion the impact following the plant closure. Consequently, for many employees, the only remaining option is an orderly departure from the company.
Chemical Industry Loses Another Site
The Venator case also demonstrates just how severely insolvency proceedings can impact industrial sites. Without an investor, even an established chemical production hub remains vulnerable. The situation becomes particularly critical when production, liquidity, and buyer interest are all lacking simultaneously.
For Krefeld-Uerdingen, this marks the end of another chapter in its history of industrial value creation. More than 380 jobs will be lost. Furthermore, the Chempark is losing an operation that has long been an integral part of the site’s chemical profile.