The factory produces shrink film for bottles

American firm Eastman Chemical Company says it needs to look at the future of its site in Hartlepool.

It has now begun a consultation with unions over the future of the plant.

The factory, where 77 people are employed, produces copolyesters which are used for packaging.

The company said production at the Hartlepool site will continue while discussions are held.

Executive vice president and president of the company's Eastman division, Jim Rogers, said: "As we move toward becoming an even stronger supplier to the global copolyester market, we're taking steps to create the most competitive manufacturing position possible for our products.

Consultation process

"Discussions such as those we are having at our Hartlepool site are focused on the company's desire to provide the best value to our customers as well as to our stockbrokers."

The company employs 15,000 people in more than 30 countries around the world. It manufactures and markets chemicals, fibres and plastics.

The company opened its factory in Hartlepool in 1992 and makes plastics including shrink film for bottles.

Factory manager Joe Bologna said: "I regret to say that Eastman has gone to its employees and announced our intent to begin a consultation process with the union and the employees on the possible future alternatives for the site.

"That's the whole purpose of the consultation process is to put the announcement out there and give them a chance to understand the announcement and come up with ideas and suggestions for what they see as possible alternatives.

"We will give those alternatives due consideration to see what the end result will be."