The first week of 2019 has been unexceptional in terms of new business, but allowances must be made for the remnants of the holiday season. Competitive freights can be secured in all regions for prompt loading, at least until cargo volumes pick up over the next week or two.-by Adrian Brown

Shell Chemical LP completed an expansion that increased linear alpha olefin capacity at its Geismar, Louisiana, petrochemical refinery by 425,000 metric tons per year, the company announced Monday. The new unit began production last month.

Quaker Chemical and Houghton International stated Tuesday that they expect the United States Federal Trade Commission to approve their proposed merger and for the deal to close within the next few months.

Shell plans to invest $16 million to expand its lubricant blending and packaging plant in Brockville, Canada, according to an Ottawa newspapers report.