Having announced last November that it intended to sell its Schülke & Mayr unit, Air Liquide has begun exclusive talks with global private equity firm EQT. The French gases group said its strategy is to focus on its core gases and healthcare businesses.

Part of Air Liquide since 1996, Schülke & Mayr provides disinfectants for hand, skin and surfaces, wound antisepsis products as well as specialty additives for personal care. The division employs more than 1,250 people and is represented by 22 subsidiaries, operating three production sites in Germany, France and Brazil.

EQT said the proposed investment aligns with its thematic approach guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 3 Good Health and Wellbeing. “EQT has followed Schülke closely for over a year and the planned acquisition is a good example of how EQT is investing thematically with the trends in strong, non-cyclical businesses in our core sectors, such as healthcare,” commented Matthias Wittkowski, partner at EQT Partners and investment advisor to the EQT VIII fund.

The Swedish-headquartered group added that it plans to build on Schülke’s current strategy, which includes investing in growth, strengthening its position in core and new markets, and focusing on continued R&D and new product development.

A deal is subject to a final and definitive agreement between both parties as well as antitrust and foreign investment clearances.