In a deal expected to be finalised by the end of the year, Azelis Group has agreed to acquire Koda Distribution Group (KDG). The buy “significantly enhances” Azelis’ position as a leading global specialty chemicals distributor, the group steered from Antwerp said.

In future, KDG, which is said to have demonstrated extensive growth both organically and fuelled by recent acquisitions into new markets, will trade as Azelis Americas. It will be headed by Frank Bergonzi, the US firm’s current CEO, who will also become a member of the Azelis board of directors.

The newly created Azelis Americas will operate as KDG did before in the US and Canada, using its existing business model and go-to-market strategy, maintaining its regional brands and specialty chemicals sales to customers via industry verticals and through dedicated experts.

“Being part of the Azelis Group will provide a strong platform for increased growth and widespread benefits of being part of a global organisation with a regional focus,” said Bergzoni, adding that the European company’s approach to the specialty chemicals market aligns extremely well with the KDG model, so that management, staff and approach to customers and suppliers will remain unchanged.