Lanxess Continues Growth with Billion-Dollar Purchases

Specialty chemicals company Lanxess announced its second billion-dollar acquisition in August last week, marking large expansions for an international company with a strong presence in Pittsburgh.

In a $1.3 billion deal, Lanxess will take over the microbial control business of the New York-based International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF), one of the leading suppliers of antimicrobial ingredients for material protection, preservatives and disinfectants.

Earlier in August, Lanxess completed its acquisition of Washington-based specialty chemicals manufacturer Emerald Kalama Chemical in a $1.04 billion deal with European connections.

Lanxess’ North American headquarters is located just a few miles from Pittsburgh International Airport in Findlay, Pa. The company, which employs about 14,800 people in 33 countries, often hosts colleagues from its global headquarters in Cologne, Germany, and other locations.

“We’re excited about the continued growth of our company, particularly as it relates to a focus on consumer protection and helping people navigate their daily lives in a more safe and sustainable way,” said Antonis Papadourakis, Lanxess Corp. president and CEO. “Locally in Pittsburgh, the team is excited to welcome our new colleagues—both national and global—at our Americas Region headquarters building.”

Lanxess expects the IFF transaction to be completed in the second quarter of 2022. IFF products are used in a wide range of applications, particularly in industrial water treatment and personal care and household products, as well as paints and coatings.

IFF employs around 270 people and operates two production facilities at its U.S. sites in St. Charles, La., and Institute, W.V. The business also maintains a large partner network with active ingredient manufacturers and formulators.

The earlier August deal with Emerald Kalama Chemical will see Lanxess grow by around 470 employees and three production sites in Kalama, Wash. (about 40 miles north of Portland, Oregon); Rotterdam, Netherlands; and Widnes, England.

Lanxess’ North American headquarters is located a few miles away from Pittsburgh International Airport in nearby Findlay, Pa. (Photo courtesy of Lanxess)