Eastman Chemical to Lay Off Dozens of Employees in Springfield

Eastman Chemical to Lay Off Dozens of Employees in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, MA - The Eastman Chemical Company is set to lay off approximately 60 workers from its Indian Orchard plant, marking a significant shift in operations for the longstanding Springfield employer. This plant is recognized as the largest chemical facility in New England and plays a critical role in the local economy.

According to Amanda Allman, a spokesperson for Eastman Chemical, the company has decided to discontinue the production of solvent-based resins. This decision follows a broader trend in the manufacturing sector toward more sustainable practices, as companies increasingly move away from solvent-based products in favor of water-based alternatives. Production is expected to halt in mid-October, with a complete shutdown of the solvent production line by the end of December

Reasons Behind the Layoffs

The layoffs come as a surprise to many, but Allman emphasized that this change aligns with the company's strategic direction. “If you think about a car or building, there is an inner layer that goes in between the windowpanes, so at the site there, we make resins that go into those products,” Allman explained.

Despite the layoffs, Allman assured the public that Eastman will continue to manufacture water-based resins and its well-known product Safeflex at the Indian Orchard location. This pivot aims to position the company better within the evolving market, which increasingly demands environmentally friendly products.

In Springfield, the Indian Orchard facility employs around 300 individuals. The impending layoffs have raised concerns about job security and the welfare of those affected. “A lot of those decisions are yet to be determined, so we don’t have visibility into what that will look like,” Allman added. The company indicated that discussions around potential job redistributions within the organization are ongoing, highlighting its commitment to reducing negative impacts on employees

Community Support and Resources

Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno has expressed his support for the affected employees and reaffirmed Eastman Chemical's commitment to the city. “Eastman officials have indicated with me they are dedicated to the city of Springfield and they have been a good corporate citizen,” he stated. The company has actively participated in community initiatives in the Indian Orchard area, contributing to local charity events and programs.

For workers facing layoffs, resources are available through local workforce development programs. The Mayor highlighted MassHire, a state entity that assists individuals in securing employment or retraining during workforce transitions. “Any type of training or downsizing of a business, MassHire gets involved,” Sarno explained, ensuring that support services are at hand for those impacted by the layoffs.

Looking Ahead

While Eastman Chemical is adjusting its production strategy, the future of the Springfield plant appears secure. The decision to focus on water-based resins is in step with a significant shift in the chemical industry, which is grappling with both regulatory pressures and changing consumer preferences toward greener solutions. According to a report by the American Chemistry Council, the market for water-based coatings is expected to grow significantly over the next decade, with projected demand increasing 6% annually.

Eastman Chemical's ongoing commitment to Springfield, along with its corporate social responsibility initiatives, positions the company as a crucial player in both the local community and the broader chemical manufacturing landscape. A focus on sustainable production not only aligns with global environmental efforts but also supports the company's long-term strategy amid an evolving industrial framework.

As the company prepares for this transition, it remains vital for local stakeholders to advocate for the workforce and facilitate a smooth transition for employees affected by the layoffs.

For more information about Eastman Chemical's operations in Springfield and support resources, please visit MassHire.