Eastman Chemical.

Eastman Chemical plans to cut up to 150 jobs at its Voridian plant near Columbia, SC, as part of a continuing effort to reduce costs and remain competetive. The company said it will cut 20-25% of its work force at the plant, or 120-150 workers. The Voridian plant is Eastman's largest polyethylene terephthalate plant for the manufacture of plastic packaging. Eastman also reported that nearly 450 employees throughout the company have opted to take early retirement, allowing the chemical firm to avoid major layoffs.