In order to increase profitability over a sustained period, Clariant implements measures designed to improve the Group’s performance. The aim of these efforts is to increase the Group’s operating result and to reduce net working capital. The changes made to the processes and structures result in a reduction of headcount across the Group.

Restructuring. In 2018, Clariant recorded expenses for restructuring in the amount of CHF 14 million (2017: CHF 37 million). This concerned restructuring measures mainly in the Unites States, Switzerland, France and in Germany.

Impairment. No impairment losses were recorded in 2018. The one recognized in 2017 relates to site closures in China.

Transaction-related costs comprise expenses incurred in connection with acquisition or disposal projects and also costs incurred in connection with the implementation of internal reorganizational measures.

The total amount of CHF 93 million of Restructuring, impairment and transaction-related costs (2017: CHF 180 million) is reported in the income statement as follows: CHF 11 million in Costs of goods sold (2017: CHF 10 million), CHF 81 million in Selling, general and administrative costs (2017: CHF 158 million), CHF 1 million in Research & Development costs (2017: CHF 8 million) and nil in Income from associates and joint ventures (2017: CHF 4 million expense).