Lanxess completes acquisition of Emerald Kalama Chemical

Lanxess signed a purchase agreement on February 14, 2021. All required regulatory approvals have been received. Lanxess financed the purchase price of around USD 1.04 billion (EUR 870 million) from liquid funds.

In 2020, Emerald Kalama Chemical generated global sales of around USD 425 million (EUR 375 million) and EBITDA pre-exceptionals of around USD 90 million (EUR 80 million). Seventy-five percent of sales were attributable to business with specialty products for the consumer care market, especially products for flavors and fragrances, as well as preservatives for use in food, household products and cosmetics. One quarter of sales originated from business with specialty chemicals for industrial applications. With the closing of the transaction, LANXESS grows by around 470 employees and the three production sites in Kalama/Washington (USA), Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Widnes (Great Britain).

Acquisition strengthens portfolio for the plastics, paints and coatings as well as adhesives industries

The second-biggest acquisition in Lanxess’ history sees the company expanding its range of specialty chemicals for industrial applications, especially for the plastics, paints and coatings as well as adhesives industries.

One important addition to the new Lanxess portfolio is a range of non-phthalate plasticisers and coalescents for adhesives, coatings, sealants and vinyl applications. According to the company, the plasticisers optimise production processes and end product properties. They are highly compatible with polar polymers in water-based adhesive systems and improve film formation in paints and coatings.