Brenntag to Acquire Glycols and Solvents Distributor

Picture of Brenntag trucks in a distribution warehouse

With acquisition, Brenntag increases its distribution market in Southern Italy. Image courtesy of Brenntag.

Chemical distributor Brenntag recently announced an agreement to acquire Solventis Group, a glycols and solvents distribution company operating from Antwerp, Belgium, and from the UK. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed. The closing of the transaction is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals, and is expected in the second quarter of 2024.

Ewout van Jarwaarde, chief executive officer Brenntag Essentials, said,“Brenntag Essentials combines a cost-efficient network of last-mile service operations with regional sourcing and supply chain services, and global sourcing. Solventis Group is a highly compatible fit to our strategy, adding tollgate capabilities and volume optionality via their Antwerp state-of-the-art site to our regional capacities, while opening interregional optimization potential. The acquisition will support our integration with increasingly global supply markets while strengthening our regional market position and customer proximity in EMEA.”

Established in 2002 and based in the United Kingdom, the family-owned company encompasses multiple entities, including Solventis, Kilfrost Europe, Antwerp Distillation Co., Solventis Solutions, and Solvenox. In 2022, the group reported annual sales of over €300 million. Specializing in the distribution of glycols and solvents, Solventis Group provides tailored solutions to a diverse global customer base. Alongside a site in Scunthorpe, UK, the company operates a purpose-built facility in the major European chemicals hub of the port of Antwerp, Belgium, engaging in advanced blending, storage, packing, distribution, and chemical recycling.

With its strategically positioned Antwerp site, the acquisition also improves Brenntag Essentials’ sustainability profile with increased sourcing via ships and barges, as well as expanded supply and delivery options through rail transport. In addition, Solventis’ proficiency in glycol recovery and recycling further enhances Brenntag’s sustainability profile.

David Lubbock, owner and chief executive officer of the Solventis Group, said, “Our global network of suppliers and customers stands to gain significant advantages from Brenntag’s extensive global reach and diverse product and service portfolio. We eagerly look forward to becoming part of the expanding Brenntag Essentials platform, offering our extensive product range encompassing glycols, solvents, and automotive products, including coolants, antifreeze, brake fluids and de-icing fluids, to a broader customer base worldwide.”

For more information, visit www.brenntag.com.

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