“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast
Hosted by The Chemical Company
Episode 148 | October 2026
Episode 148 of The View from Jamestown is our October 2026 episode, with Ben and Robb recapping meetings at EPCA. In addition, the team provides an update on Asian chemical availabilities, demand planning for the end of the year, freight and logistics costs near and far, and why now is the important time to start planning your January supply chains.
Featuring:
President Robb Roach
VP Sales & Marketing AJ Petrarca
Latin American Operations Manager Javier Fernandez
Host: Marketing & Sales Manager Ben Sawicki
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Produced by:
Kettlebottom Creative
Disclaimer: The material contained on this Podcast is provided by The Chemical Company (TCC) solely for informational purposes. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up-to-date. The information in the Podcast is intended solely as a general educational aid. TCC is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of TCC policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by TCC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by TCC employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of TCC or any of its officials. All statements, comments and opinions presented are made in the context of robust dialog and freedom of expression”. TCC assumes no responsibility for any consequence relating directly or indirectly to any action or inaction you take based on the information in the Podcast. While TCC strives to keep the information in the Podcast accurate, complete, and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee, and will not be responsible for, any damage or loss related to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information. TCC assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the Podcast. The information contained on the Podcast is provided entirely on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness. TCC is not responsible for any changes to the information provided herein. TCC is not providing legal advice and does not assume liability for detrimental reliance on the information provided herein as conditions are subject to change. Please consult with your legal counsel regarding the applicable tariffs.
Episode Summary:
Fresh off the European Petrochemical Association (EPCA) Annual Meeting in Vienna, Austria, The Chemical Company team returns with firsthand insights into the challenges facing the global chemical industry. In Episode 148 of *The View from Jamestown*, host Ben Sawicki is joined by Javier Fernandez, AJ Petrarca, and TCC President Robb Roach to recap their conversations with international suppliers, customers, and industry partners. From Europe’s soaring energy costs and growing competition from Chinese producers to ongoing Rhine River disruptions and shifting global trade dynamics, the team explores the pressures impacting chemical production, pricing, and supply chains around the world.
As 2026 winds down, the conversation shifts toward what lies ahead for Q4 and the beginning of 2027. With freight costs climbing, supply availability tightening, and winter weather threatening to create additional logistics challenges, the team discusses why proactive inventory management and early planning are more important than ever. They also examine softening demand, continued mergers and acquisitions throughout the chemical industry, and developing market conditions for key products including methanol and glycols.
Despite the uncertainty, The Chemical Company remains focused on strengthening supplier relationships, expanding its global sourcing network, and helping customers navigate an increasingly complicated market. From EPCA takeaways to preparing for the new year, Episode 148 delivers a candid look at the state of the chemical industry, the opportunities emerging amid disruption, and the importance of reliable partnerships and security of supply.
