BASF opens a second polyurethane systems site in Russia

With a second Russian polyurethane systems site, BASF is strengthening its worldwide network of PU System Houses. In spring 2012, the applications technology centre near St. Petersburg will start operations which will provide polyurethane customers with local sales and technology services. The building will house a technology centre and office space alongside storage areas and a test laboratory.

According to BASF, through its existing PU System House in Nishnekamsk which went into operation in 2000, the company already has a strong market position in PU system solutions in Russia. BASF sees significant potential for growth especially in the automotive and construction industries as well as in the CASE sector for applications using its PU system solutions.

Like the PU System House in Nishnekamsk, the new site will also be a part of the joint venture with the Russian company OAO Nishnekamskneftechim (NKNC). This means that BASF can draw on local polyol production in Russia, and be a reliable supplier of PU products.

BASF operates 38 System Houses worldwide, as well as production sites for the main precursor PU products. Only recently the company opened PU System Houses in Poland and Dubai, UAE, and has started the construction of two further sites in Tianjin and Chongqing, China.

“With this investment into a second Russian site we show our local customers that we want to be their preferred partner and support their growth by having regard for special local requirements,“ stated Wayne T. Smith, President BASF Polyurethanes. “This is the systematic implementation of our successful worldwide strategy of having sites that are close to the customer which will strengthen our leadership position in the polyurethane market.”

Dr. Uwe Hartwig, Senior Vice President BASF Polyurethanes Europe, said: “This additional site will further strengthen our partnership-based customer relations in Russia, particularly in the St. Petersburg region. In this way we have created a perfect basis for our customer’s success in a strongly growing market for polyurethane applications; and we are considering further expansions of the site in the long term.”

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