The ratings incorporate Eastman Chemical Co.'s satisfactory business profile and an intermediate financial risk profile. Standard&Poor's Ratings Services does not expect any significant changes in business strategies or financial policies as a result of the transition to a new chief executive officer. Kingsport, Tenn.-based Eastman's primary products include: Acetate fibers used in cigarette and other filters and textiles; Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) used in beverage, food, and other packaging; Coatings, additives, and solvents used in paints; Materials used to make adhesives; Engineering and specialty polymers used in durable and medical goods, personal and household goods, and packaging; and Performance chemicals and intermediates used in a wide variety of applications. The acetate fiber and PET businesses are more commodity-oriented than
