“The acquisition of Lucas Meyer Cosmetics is a prime example of how we implement our purpose-led growth strategy and support our goal of accelerating customer- and sustainability-driven innovation,” commented Conrad Keijzer, Chief Executive Officer of Clariant. “The complementarity in customer portfolio, product portfolio, and regional strongholds and capabilities in R&D and in marketing make the combination of Clariant and Lucas Meyer Cosmetics a leading solutions provider for high-value personal care brands.”

Clariant is set to consolidate its portfolio towards specialty chemicals businesses and consumer end-markets, with a focus on natural and sustainable products. The company is increasing its exposure to the active and functional cosmetic ingredients market through the acquisition of Lucas Meyer Cosmetics, which will be consolidated into its Business Unit Care Chemicals from April 2, 2024. The CHF 350 million (€355 million) acquisition was funded through a dual-tranche senior unsecured bond and a multi-currency bridge facility, with plans for refinancing in 2024. Clariant anticipates its investment-grade credit rating to remain unchanged post-acquisition.

“I see the acquisition of Lucas Meyer Cosmetics as a significant step forward for Care Chemicals. Customers as well as consumers increasingly demand high-value natural ingredients,” said Christian Vang, President of the Clariant Business Unit Care Chemicals and the Americas region. “I extend a warm welcome to 190 highly qualified professionals as our new colleagues at Clariant. We jointly look forward to exciting growth opportunities and expect to increase annual sales to $180 million (€165 million) in 2028 from around $100 million (€92 million) currently.”