Austrian private equity investor Ardian has acquired Exclusive Synthesis (ES) and Maleic Anhydride Intermediates & Specialties (IM) from Linz-based DPx Holdings for an undisclosed sum.

The assets held by the 51:49 joint venture of investor JLL Partners and Dutch chemical Group DSM were merged in 2013 from holdings of DSM Pharmaceutical Products and Patheon.

ES develops and produces chemical intermediates for agriculture and other industries. IM produces maleic anhydride, along with a large number of intermediates, derivatives and esters. Together they reported sales of some €200 million in 2014.

With Ardian’s support, management led by designated CEO Wolfgang Hillisch plans to “significantly strengthen” the units’ market position and expand through organic growth and acquisitions.