Subscribe
Share
Share
Embed
Join industry leaders at The Chemical Summit on September 29-30, 2026 in Houston, Texas. Visit thechemicalsummit.com
Global oversupply, uncertain demand, and tough cost structures are reshaping the chemical industry, leaving many companies facing unprecedented challenges. John Stekla, Director at Parin Resources, joins host Victoria Meyer for a frank conversation about the realities facing chemical producers, traders, and buyers as the industry moves into 2026. They examine the drivers of margin compression, how U.S. and global players are making difficult operational choices, and why even the industry’s cost advantages aren't a guaranteed ticket to success.
Victoria and John also discuss shifting strategies among buyers and sellers, the implications of recent structural changes and plant closures, and how companies are preparing for what could be several more years of pressured results. Despite the near-term headwinds, John underscores the long-term value of the U.S. cost position and the cycles that have always defined chemical markets, sharing practical insights for leaders seeking to navigate uncertainty and position their businesses for the future.
Additional Links:
Victoria examines the following topics:
- Global chemicals face excess supply, flat demand, and rising competition.
- Companies are focusing on efficiency and cost-cutting to survive shrinking margins.
- The industry is restructuring with asset shutdowns and tough make-or-buy decisions.
- U.S. cost advantage persists, but fuels new competition as exports rise.
- Lessons from past cycles highlight the need for readiness and adaptability.
Killer Quote: "The bright and shiny thing really is ... the cost position that can't be reproduced anywhere in the world ... That puts us in a great position to take advantage of the demand when it bounces back. And it will, without a doubt. We're always in cycles and you could argue it's an eight or ten year cycle, but we've been through this before and we're in a very strong position to weather it." — John Stekla
***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.
***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review.
***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com
***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review.
***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com
Creators and Guests
Host
Victoria King Meyer
Founder & Host of The Chemical Show + The Chemical Summit; Victoria brings 25+ years industry leadership experience including Shell and Clariant and a Victoria brings a practical, business-focused perspective to conversations about leadership, strategy, innovation, and the forces shaping the future of the chemical industry.to
What is The Chemical Show: Where Leaders Talk Business?
Looking to lead, grow, and stay ahead in the global chemical industry?
The Chemical Show is the #1 business podcast for the chemical industry, bringing you leadership insights, business strategies, industry trends, and real-world lessons from the executives shaping the business of chemicals.
Each week, host Victoria King Meyer sits down with leaders from across the chemical industry, from Fortune 50 companies to mid-sized businesses and innovative startups. You’ll hear how they’re navigating today’s challenges and opportunities, the experiences that shaped their leadership, and the insights you can apply to your own business and career.
Conversations explore the issues that matter to chemical industry leaders, including:
• Business strategy and growth
• Leadership and talent
• Innovation and technology
• AI and digital transformation
• Supply chain and operational resilience
• Markets, customers, and industry trends
Victoria brings more than 25 years of chemical industry experience from companies including Shell, LyondellBasell, and Clariant. Today, she is an executive advisor and coach, founder of The Chemical Summit, and host of The Chemical Show.
Whether you’re an executive, business leader, or rising leader in chemicals and materials, The Chemical Show helps you stay informed, think differently, and lead with greater impact.
Follow The Chemical Show on LinkedIn and join the conversation. (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-chemical-show/)
The Chemical Show: https://www.thechemicalshow.com
The Chemical Summit: https://www.thechemicalsummit.com
Progressio Global: https://www.progressioglobal.com