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Full production capacity of 450,000 tons per year in 2024, efficiency-enhancing MVR technology, the position of a European leader in the salt tablet market, and the development of a strong brand  – Qemetica is expanding its salt business thanks to its saltworks in Germany. The operation of one of the most modern production plants of this type in Europe, located in Stassfurt in Saxony-Anhalt, places the Qemetica Group among the largest producers of evaporated salt in Europe.

Qemetica Group – the second-largest producer of soda ash and baking soda in the European Union, participated in the annual, largest conference for producers of these raw materials. The event, held in Athens from October 10 to 12, 2023, remains the most important gathering for both soda ash producers and buyers. During this year's edition, Kamil Majczak, the President of the Management Board of Qemetica S.A., presented the Group’s track for reducing the carbon footprint in production and discussed the implementation of CIECH's ambitious climate goals.

The jury of the 18th edition of the prestigious competition "The Best Annual Report" recognized Qemetica S.A.'s report for the year 2022 as one of the best in the "Enterprises" category, awarding it the third main prize. The competition organized by the Institute of Accounting and Taxes aims to promote annual reports with the highest utility value for investors and shareholders, prepared by companies listed on the Stock Exchange. This year's award goes to the Qemetica S.A. team for the eighth time in the entire history of the prestigious competition.

On October 10, 2023, Qemetica Soda Polska, the largest producer of soda ash in Poland, Central, and Eastern Europe, as well as a leading producer of evaporated salt in Poland, was honored with the prestigious "Employee-Friendly Employer" award in the 15th edition of the competition. The distinction was presented by Andrzej Duda, President of the Republic of Poland, during a ceremony at the Presidential Palace. The competition was organized by the NSZZ "Solidarity" under the honorary patronage of the Head of State.

SNOOVIO is a new brand offering sleep mattresses, which are produced based on years of experience and know-how from the leading PUR foams market leader – Qemetica Pianki. The brand, based on an original production and sales concept, has just launched online sales (www.snoovio.pl) of modern and durable mattresses made from the highest quality materials, including those sourced from recycling. What sets the SNOOVIO brand apart is its wide range of mattress characteristics in three categories, interchangeable covers, as well as the option to test the mattresses for 100 days from the date of purchase. A comprehensive promotional campaign for the new brand has just begun.

In the first half of 2023, Qemetica Group generated PLN 2,917 billion in revenue, which is 18 percent higher than in the corresponding period of the previous year. The company reported an adjusted EBITDA result of PLN 365 million, indicating a decrease of 15 percent year-on-year, and recorded a net loss of PLN 17 million. After a record-breaking 2022, the second quarter of the current year was a continuation of the period of deteriorating economic situation, reflected in low demand for Qemetica Group's products. Nevertheless, Qemetica maintains the fulfillment of its forecast, according to which the (adj.) EBITDA result for 2023 is expected to be PLN 860-920 million. The Group remains committed to investments that aim to ensure its further development and greater competitiveness in a demanding market.

Over 500 kW (0.5 MW) – this is the total power generated from photovoltaic panels that the Qemetica Group in Poland will soon have at its disposal. PV installations operate in five Polish companies within the Qemetica Group – Pianki, Sarzyna, Cargo, Vitro, and Nieruchomości. Soon, another project will start at Qemetica Pianki – the company is awaiting the issuance of a permit to construct a 300 kW installation. Investments in photovoltaics contribute to environmental protection and aid in fulfilling the Qemetica Group’s ambitious ESG strategy, which include reduction of the Group’s carbon dioxide emissions.

Qemetica Sarzyna, the largest producer of plant protection products in Poland, is introducing three products to new market segments. One of these products, Leptosar 200 SL, is now available in the insecticide market – a new market segment for the company. In the first half of 2023, CIECH's Agro business defends its position in the segment of cereals and corn herbicides. Additionally, Qemetica Sarzyna continues the Halvetic Tour series of events, during which farmers receive detailed information about the functionality of an innovative herbicide based on the patented BGT (Better Glyphosate Technology) method. 

Under the agreement with Cargounit, Qemetica Cargo leased another modern electric locomotive with an access module. The new 111Ed-060 type Gama is already the third locomotive to strengthen the fleet of the Qemetica transport company. Moreover, the company is expanding its operations with a new training center. These actions are part of a comprehensive development plan for Qemetica Cargo, aimed at increasing operational scale, diversifying service portfolios, and fostering employment growth.

Qemetica Vitrosilicon, the largest supplier of sodium silicates in Europe, has completed the construction of a new warehouse. The modern facility has just been commissioned on the company's premises in Żary – thanks to this investment, the logistical capabilities will be improved. The opening of the warehouse will also help to reduce the level of noise and dust in the vicinity of the plant. The investment, worth 4 million PLN, is a natural consequence of the increased production capacity of the factory after the launch of a modern and energy-efficient furnace for melting sodium silicate glass in 2021.