Stella-Jones Inc. issued a statement in response to Cabot Microelectronics Corporation’s news release of yesterday’s date announcing their intention to cease future investment in the wood treatment business and not to construct a new pentachlorophenol (“Penta”) production facility to replace operations in Matamoros, Mexico and Tuscaloosa, Alabama when they cease production, estimated to be at the end of 2021.
Eric Vachon, President and CEO, stated: “We have been acutely aware of Penta supply issues for quite some time and have been taking active steps to be ready to produce preservative under our own direction. Our team has capitalized on our exceptional internal expertise and has been working diligently both in R&D and testing so that we can be in a position to seek regulatory approvals and licenses and have the necessary infrastructure ready on time for the changes that are coming. Additionally, our robust network is well positioned to offer alternative preservatives that are suitable and approved for the treatment of wood utility poles throughout North America.”
Stella-Jones Inc. is a leading producer and marketer of pressure treated wood products. The Company supplies North America’s railroad operators with railway ties and timbers, and the continent’s electrical utilities and telecommunication companies with utility poles.
