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Veliky Novgorod-based Acron Celebrates 55th Anniversary of Its First Production Launch

Acron’s flagship facility in Veliky Novgorod is celebrating the 55th anniversary of its first production launch in 1967, when the Company’s methanol unit released its first batch.

Over the past 55 years, total output at the Veliky Novgorod facility has surpassed 230 million tonnes. Investments in strategic projects and upgrades have doubled over the past five years to RUB 42.4 billion. Acron built new nitric acid units, commissioned the Urea-6 unit and a new urea granulation unit, and upgraded its ammonia, NPK, and AN lines. These measures increased total output by 6 million tonnes and expanded the Company’s portfolio of fertiliser brands.

On 25 May, a reception was held at the Acron Cultural Centre to commemorate the anniversary. The guest list included officials from Novgorod region and Veliky Novgorod, members of the business community and public institutions, and the Company’s partners.

Acron CEO Vladimir Kunitsky congratulated employees on the Company’s anniversary and underscored that, while Veliky Novgorod-based Acron is an advanced, high-tech facility, it is first and foremost a strong team of professionals made up of experienced long-term employees and enthusiastic young recruits. Several generations of the same families continue to work for the Company and show loyalty to their profession.

Over 1,200 employees received awards at the ceremony, which was also held to celebrate Chemist’s Day. Lidia Kochneva, a production machine operator at the methanol, formalin, and urea resin facility, received the title of Honorary Chemist of the Russian Federation. Seventeen more employees received certificates of merit issued by the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade. Hundreds of regional and municipal awards were presented to other Acron employees. Chairman of the Russian Chemical Industry Association Alexander Sitnov presented Acron with a medal for the Company’s contributions to the Russian chemical industry.

Governor of Novgorod region Andrey Nikitin congratulated the Company and emphasised Acron’s contribution to social and economic development of the region. Over the past five years, the Company allocated more than RUB 1 billion to local social projects and initiatives.

Governor Nikitin noted that Acron has always invested in the well-being of the whole Novgorod region. Last year, Acron paid a record-breaking amount in taxes to the local budget. These funds were used to upgrade social infrastructure, repair roads, renovate hospitals and schools, and improve the quality of life for Novgorod residents. He promised to continue supporting Acron and make every effort to further the Company’s growth.

Throughout the month of May, Acron held special anniversary events for employees, their families, and city residents. About 100 people joined a 55 km run, and over 200 young athletes from the North-Western and Central Federal Districts participated in a judo contest.

One of the events was a drawing contest and recreation area set up at Yunost City Park for over 70 children of Company employees.

Events were also held on the day before Chemist Day at the city stadium and a nearby park. The entertainment programme included sporting events, a concert featuring guest stars and local groups, a dance show, and fireworks.