Objectives 2009
What will we strive for in 2009?
Just like last year, the objectives for 2009 are: a working place which is as safe as possible, financial health and research and development with an eye to the mid term.
2007 was the year of investments, 2008 was the year of strategy focusing. This confirmed and strengthened the earlier adopted choice for renewable raw materials and sustainable chemistry. The most noticeable consequence of this was the decision to make our phthalic anhydride and phthalates production and business independent, with the intention to disinvest at a later stage. This is a drastic, yet logical result of our choice for renewables and its related technology and marketing.
From Fine to Functional
Somewhat less eye-catching, yet significant, is the change of name from Proviron Fine Chemicals into Proviron Functional Chemicals. After the first strategic step with our biodiesel investment in 2007, this will be the second big stage: to grow into an important global player in functional chemicals, if possible starting from renewable raw materials. We want to achieve this by ‘understanding the functionality of our molecules better than our customers’ and to become ‘a truly global player in a limited number of product lines’.
Strengths
What are Proviron’s present strengths? We know a lot about esterfication technology, niche plasticizers, and binders for water bound solvent-free chemicals. In these three areas we have developed new, functional products such as feed additives, solvents, raw materials for plastics and (bio) niche plasticizers. We also intend to expand the range of emulsifiers for water borne systems. We want to turn these strengths into profit, yet at the same time, keep Proviron’s sustainable character.
Mandatory biodiesel
Talking about a new start for biodiesel would be exaggerated - after all, we sold 12 million litres in 2008. This quantity was far below capacity however. We are therefore delighted to hear that the Belgian government has decided to make biodiesel blending mandatory as of 1 July 2009. This will probably generate a lot of volume, turnover and cash. Mind you, we have always looked upon the biodiesel project primarily as leverage and a learning opportunity. After all, the project has introduced us into the world of bio raw materials which in turn fits in with our interest in renewables and sustainable chemistry.
Grateful
All these strategic challenges must not make us forget our very first priority: the safety of our employees. We took a big step in the right direction in 2008 and I very much thank our employees for their support. We must now focus on keeping up this positive trend and aim for even better results.