SABIC EuroPetrochemical BV(Sittard, Netherlands) is a SABIC subsidiary, which includes all SABIC activities in Europe, employing around 2,300 people. SABIC has a European sales offices network, logistic hubs and two petrochemical sites in Europe: at Geleen (Netherlands) and at Gelsenkirchen (Germany).

In 2003 SABIC sales in Europe amounted to almost six million tons of polymers, basic chemicals and intermediates. SABIC had acquired the petrochemicals business of DSM in Europe in 2002. In 2003, the company successfully integrated all if its businesses in Europe resulting in one integrated business system, one trade name SABIC@ for polymers and successful start-up of a sophisticated on-line system for instantaneous customer orders of polymer products.

The company has approved plans to build a new European head office for SABIC in Europe in Sittard (Netherlands), where all European business and services activities will be centralized. In June 2003, SABIC moved its European headquarters from London to Sittard (Netherlands), to integrate itself with SABIC EuroPetrochemicals. A few months later, SABIC decided to build a new European head office also in Sittard. The office is expected to open in early 2006.

Projects

SABIC has acquired full ownership of StaMax B.V.; producer of long glass fiber reinforced polypropylene and announced an investment in a second 35,000 mtpa production line, which will come on stream in 2004. StaMax is used by the auto industry to make parts for Mercedes-Benz, BMW and other fine cars.

Preparations have started for expansion of the cracker capacity (NICER project), to overcome the current ethylene and propylene shortfall. At the same time, a study will be finalized into the construction of two polyethylene plants – a high-pressure system for low-density polyethylene, a bi-modal polyethylene plant – a new polypropylene plant (PPF-7) and the replacement of several older facilities. The end of 2004 expects the results of the ongoing studies and their financial implications.

Sales via SABIC’s eShop

With a few mouse-clicks customers can place orders, check available inventory, see the status of their orders, and schedule just-in-time deliveries. The eShop enables on-line purchasing for virtually all polymers produced by SABIC for customers in Europe.

Accepted orders are confirmed immediately, enabling customers to synchronize their own production planning. This level of customer service is unique, as none of SABIC competitors in Europe offer this service.

eShop Advantages

The eShop is fast and user-friendly (five languages are offered) and allows rapid intervention in the event of problems. The system benefits SABIC EuroPetrochemicals by vastly reducing order entry processing. That time saved is reallocated for planning, improving customer service and managing the growth of imports to Europe from Saudi Arabia.