SI Group is celebrating the 100th anniversary of manufacturing operations at its Pratteln facility in Switzerland. The jubilee celebration took place on May 28, 2026 and brought together customers, employees, and representatives of the local community. The event was dedicated to summarising the plant’s achievements, which for decades has been part of the company’s Swiss manufacturing base and also serves global markets. The company indicates that the site remains an important element of its operations in performance additives, process solutions, and specialty chemical intermediates.
The Pratteln plant began operations in 1926. Over time, its production profile changed in line with industry needs. Initially, it operated as a tar processing installation, and later it was transformed into an important production site for specialty alkylphenols and alkyl-cresols. These are key intermediates used in high-performance antioxidant applications. Since the plant was acquired by SI Group in 1994, the site has been the subject of further investments intended to support safe, reliable, and more sustainable operations, while strengthening the company’s position in specialty chemicals.
SI Group President and CEO David Bradley emphasised the significance of the anniversary for the company and the plant team. "Reaching 100 years of operation is an extraordinary achievement and a reflection of the generations of employees whose dedication, expertise, and commitment have shaped Pratteln’s success. This milestone honours our past while reinforcing our commitment to investing in the future of the site, our customers, and the community."
The plant and its role in the production portfolio
According to information provided by the company, the Pratteln plant plays an important role in serving global markets. The alkylphenols and alkyl-cresols produced there are used as intermediates in applications requiring high antioxidant performance. As a result, the site remains an important part of the supply chain in the specialty chemicals segment, where process stability, product quality, and continuity of supply are of key importance.
The company also points to the long-term nature of investments carried out in Pratteln. Their purpose is to maintain safe and reliable plant operation and to adapt activities to current operational and environmental requirements. The statement did not provide details regarding the scale of expenditure or the scope of specific modernisation projects.
Course of the anniversary celebrations
The programme of the celebrations included a tour of the manufacturing facility and a reception dedicated to the site’s history and long-standing cooperation with partners. The event concluded with a part intended for employees, during which the team’s contribution to the plant’s ongoing operation and development was recognised. This structure of the celebrations highlighted both the industrial dimension of the anniversary and the importance of relationships with customers, employees, and the local community.
On the occasion of the anniversary, SI Group also announced a donation to Cartons du Coeur Baselland, an organisation that provides food assistance to individuals and families in need across the region.
According to SI Group, the Pratteln anniversary is not only a reminder of the history of a single plant, but also a confirmation of the company’s long-term approach to innovation, operational excellence, and cooperation with customers in international markets.
