05.08.2010 • News

Honeywell Cleared to Buy France's Sperian

European Union antitrust regulators approved U.S. manufacturer Honeywell International to buy French firm Sperian on Wednesday, saying the acquisition would not harm competition.

The deal is valued at $1.4 billion, including Honeywell's assumption of about $300 million in Sperian debt. Sperian makes products such as face masks, industrial clothing and protective shoes.

"As Honeywell's and Sperian's activities are mainly focused in different geographic areas and product segments, the overlaps between the parties' activities as regards personal protective equipment devices are limited," the European Commission, which regulates EU antitrust issues, said in a statement.

Honeywell has been expanding into the protective equipment business in recent years. In 2008 it acquired Norcross Safety Products for $1.2 billion. The EU executive said the merged Honeywell-Sperian would still face a number of significant competitors.

Innovation Pitch

Discover Tomorrow’s Innovators

The Start-up Platform for Chemistry & Life Sciences

CHEManager Innovation Pitch supports innovation in the chemistry and life sciences start-up scene. The platform allows founders, young entrepreneurs, and start-ups to present their companies to the industry.

From Lab to Market Challenge

Choose your favourite among the finalists

Vote Now: Germany's Most Promising Chemistry Start-ups

The "From Lab to Market Challenge" brings together the most promising founders from chemistry, materials science, and industrial biotechnology. Starting June 1st, you can cast your public vote for the finalists on CHEManager.com — before the award ceremony with €10,000 in prizes takes place on June 25th.