SolVin was set up in 1999, when Solvay and BASF joined their competencies in the Vinyls sector, and started its operations in August. Solvay holds 75% and BASF 25% of SolVin. The synergies achieved in know-how, organisation and cost efficiency, the complementary of product ranges as well as upstream integration have built up SolVin as a leader on the PVC and PVDC markets.

On January 1, 2002, SolVin integrated the polyvinyl chloride production activities located in Martorell, Spain, which had previously been owned by Solvay. These activities comprise a 65% share of the PVC and VCM production joint venture operated with Atofina, whose 35% stake will remain unaffected. Related activities previously controlled by Solvay, including Martorell's electrolysis unit, were also transferred to SolVin. The production joint venture in Martorell with Atofina was launched in February 1999, with the aim of creating a large integrated plant, which maximises competitiveness. The ownership structure of SolVin was not modified by the transaction. Following this transfer of ownership, the picture is now clear and complete: all of Solvay and BASF group's PVC and PVDC activities in Europe are housed within SolVin.

SolVin is now the biggest integrated player from chlorine via EDC, VCM to PVC and via VDC to PVDC in Europe having operations in Belgium, France, Germany, Spain and Italy with an annual capacity of 1.3 million tonnes of PVC and 35 kt of PVDC. SolVin generated consolidated sales exceeding 1 billion euros with 2,300 employees.

In Ferrare, Italy, SolVin founded together with Vulcaflex, Adriaplast and Technometal a joint venture for the recycling of PVC wastes utilising the Vinyloop-process developed by Solvay. With this investment SolVin furtermore proves its long-term commitment to PVC supporting SolVin's Vision which is based on the four axes

• Customers
• Society
• Personnel
• Shareholders

In the first years of operation SolVin has worked out and clearly applied its strategy supported by a true "European Spirit" that will enable it to achieve its Vision and become "The Partner in Vinyls".

For the customers

SolVin aims to be the long-term partner, providing the greatest value in terms of product quality, reliability of supply and level of service.

For the employees

SolVin provides a motivating environment in which staff members provide SolVin with their skills, commitment and creativity, while SolVin makes it possible for all employees to realise their potential, earn their living and benefit from secure employment.

For the shareholders

SolVin is constantly improving competitiveness and profitability.

For the society

SolVin acts as a responsible partner through the priority it gives to safety and the environment at all stages of production and marketing of its products including answers to questions concerning the end-of-life of its products.

In this way, SolVin will realise its Vision of being

The Partner in Vinyls

and ensure that its development is sustainable.

Pierre Tucoulat