08.01.2021 • NewsSolvay

Solvay Sells Surfactants to OpenGate Capital

Solvay’s transformation to a specialties company has taken another step forward with an agreement to sell its European and North American amphoteric surfactant business to US private equity firm OpenGate Capital.

The business, which employs about 175 people, is a key player in surfactants, with a focus on producing amphoterics primarily used in body care, hair care and home care products.

The sale includes three main production sites in Genthin, Germany, Halifax, UK, and University Park, Illinois, USA, as well as a tolling business in Turkey. It also includes tolling and service agreements with OpenGate “to ensure a seamless transition and minimal customer disruption.”

“This agreement represents another critical step in the execution of our strategic plan as we further focus our home & personal care portfolio on growing specialty formulations and custom solutions,” said Michael Radossich, president of Solvay's Novecare global business unit.

The transaction is expected to close by end March, pending completion of customary conditions and regulatory approvals.

Solvay said it will invest the proceeds of the sale in its strategic growth segments “as part of its portfolio simplification journey.”

Last November, Solvay agreed to sell its barium and strontium business in Germany, Spain and Mexico, as well as its sodium percarbonate business in Germany, to Latour Capital. Earlier that month, the Belgian group also revealed it was negotiating the sale of its process materials business with Composites One.

On Jan. 31, 2020, Solvay completed the sale of its performance polyamide activities to BASF and Domo Chemicals.

Author: Elaine Burridge, Freelance Journalist

Solvay has agreed to sell its European and North American amphoteric surfactant...
Solvay has agreed to sell its European and North American amphoteric surfactant business to OpenGate Capital. The sale includes three main production sites in Genthin, Germany, Halifax, UK, and University Park, Illinois, USA, as well as a tolling business in Turkey. (c) Solvay

CHEManager Spotlight

Standardization and Harmonization of Digital Chemical and Pharmaceutical Logistics
Creating Interfaces

Standardization and Harmonization of Digital Chemical and Pharmaceutical Logistics

CHEManager Spotlight is an exclusive event tailored for practitioners and decision-makers in the chemical industry. This part of our event series delves into the latest trends and innovations in logistics to streamline your operations and drive efficiency.

Free Virtual Event

Sustainability in Bioprocessing
Bioprocess Forum

Sustainability in Bioprocessing

Join us to explore hot topics in sustainable bioprocessing like the industrial potential of enzymatic synthesis, innovative biocatalysis techniques, and the use of digital twins in bioprocessing.