Bluestar Silicones Becomes Elkem Silicones

Elkem is integrating two Chinese entities into the group, as well as renaming Bluestar Silicones to Elkem Silicones. The two plants have previously been owned directly by the same owner, China National Bluestar. Now, as part of Elkem’s growth strategy, Bluestar Xinghuo Silicones and Yongdeng Silicon Materials will be integrated into the Elkem group. This move further develops Elkem’s integrated silicone value chain, from upstream quartz mining to silicon, silicones and downstream silicones specialities, according to the company. The Elkem group will now have 26 manufacturing sites and about 6,200 employees.


With this integration, Elkem can capitalize on the strengths of its industrial footprint, R&D competencies, and sales and marketing excellence so that Elkem Silicones can provide even more value to its customers and stakeholders.


“We are excited to grow the Elkem group and to develop the company further,” said Helge Aasen, CEO, Elkem.


At the same time as Elkem assumes responsibility for the two new entities, Elkem’s silicones division is changing its name from Bluestar Silicones to Elkem Silicones. Company executives say that being part of Elkem provides a strong financial foundation for further growth, enabling Elkem Silicones to remain a competitive and agile provider of innovative silicone solutions.


“Elkem Silicones will become an important player in the fast-growing silicones industry to enable our customers to deliver their potential,” said Elkem Silicones CEO Frederic Jacquin.


The new Elkem Silicones division will group together about 3000 employees for an annual turnover approaching E1 billion. The division will operate with a strong base comprising two upstream manufacturing sites, one located in Asia and one located in Europe, along with eight downstream manufacturing sites and 10 R&D centers worldwide.


“We are excited to be part of this growth story and to keep improving and developing our offering in the silicones industry further. Our new footprint will contribute to offer our customers better service, stronger growth capabilities and continued security of supply, says Jacquin.