Syngenta to close Paris facility

Effective May 29, 2015, Syngenta will discontinue operations at its Paris seed corn production facility and consolidate activities at other sites, according to Pam Molitor, Syngenta director of corporate communications, North America Region.

 

“Syngenta is committed to delivering the highest quality products and integrated solutions to its customers,” Molitor said. “To achieve this and address its growing commercial corn business in North America, Syngenta is making changes to its seed production and supply facilities mix.”

The site was built in 1970 as a Northrup King facility, Molitor said, “and has been a part of Syngenta ever since as a legacy company.”

 

“This is a business decision and is not related to the performance of the Syngenta team in Paris,” she added. “The plant manager and staff have performed at a high level, and Syngenta values the team members for their knowledge, skills and experience. Because Syngenta leadership understands the personal impact of this decision, the company is encouraging employees to apply for open positions in other company locations.”

 

The local site currently employs 24 full-time staff members as well as 10 seasonal employees through Manpower, Molitor confirmed. Eight employees will stay on through shipping and distribution season to “ensure seed customers’ needs are met.”

 

In addition to its on-site employees, the closing will also impact the area growers and contractors who have worked with Syngenta over the years.

 

“Syngenta appreciates the contribution that local area seed growers and production contractors have played in successful seed production at Paris,” Molitor said.

 

The company is still “evaluating options” for the 12-acre site.

 

“We have not made any arrangements to market or sell the site until the employees were notified,” Molitor explained. “Syngenta intends to look at all options on the best course of action for the property.”