Eastman Launches Laboratory in Shanghai
New Facility to Strengthen Applications Development Collaboration with Local Customers
Shanghai (November 17, 2005) - Eastman Chemical Company today inaugurated its China Lab in Shanghai, to support the development of new formulations and performance-enhancing applications for North Asia-based customers.
Eastman's Chief Technology Officer and Senior Vice President Greg O. Nelson unveiled the new facility, the first of its kind in the region, with customer representatives and employees at a grand ribbon cutting ceremony. "The China Lab represents Eastman's latest commitment to the Chinese market," said Greg O Nelson. "This strategic investment enables us to introduce our world-class expertise and decades of technical excellence to this dynamic market, for the benefit of our local customers."
The Eastman China Lab is located in the Pudong New Development Area of Shanghai. Scientists and engineers at the Eastman China Lab will partner with local universities, customers and research institutions to provide faster, enhanced technical assistance as well as facilitate strategic or joint development projects and partnerships.
"With this newly established technology group, we'll work to enhance customer satisfaction by providing joint technology development and innovative solutions right here, where our customers are," said James Dickerson, Eastman's technology service manager for China. "When they succeed, we succeed." The lab currently has eight full-time scientists and engineers on staff, and Dickerson anticipates it will grow to support Eastman's expanding businesses in the North America region.
About Eastman
Eastman Chemical Company (NYSE:EMN) manufactures and markets chemicals, fibers and plastics worldwide. It provides key differentiated coatings, adhesives and specialty plastics products; is the world's largest producer of PET polymers for packaging; and is a major supplier of cellulose acetate fibers. Eastman is leveraging its heritage of innovation and strength in polyester, acetyl and organic chemistry technologies to drive growth and meet increasing demand in four select markets: building and construction, packaging, health, and electronics. Founded in 1920 and headquartered in Kingsport, Tenn., Eastman is a FORTUNE 500 company with 2004 sales of $6.6 billion and approximately 12,000 employees. For more information about Eastman and its products, visit www.eastman.com.
