Recylex is suspending lead production, citing decelerated demand, mainly from the auto industry.
In a statement, the large European smelter said it’s indefinitely ceasing production beginning March 26 because metal prices have fallen precipitously amid the worldwide COVID-19 disruption.
The company has shifted its focus to preserving plant equipment for an eventual restart. In the interim, it will use current inventory to fulfil customer orders, while short-time work will be made available for half of its workforce.
Citing weak metal prices and poor demand, Recylex’s lead-acid recycling plants in France and Germany will operate an minimal levels. A planned maintenance shutdown at the Weser-Metall GmbH’s smelter has been postponed.
There are initial signs of reduced demand for the company’s special metals segment, but business hasn’t been affecting enough to warrant ramping down operations. The company’s zinc operations will also keep operating normally until further notice.
In heeding state directives intended to curtail the spread of COVID-19, Recylex’s rehabilitation project at the L’Estaque site in France has been put on hold until further notice.