Univar Named on Newsweek List of Most Responsible Companies

Univar Solutions Inc. recently announced that it has been included in Newsweek’s America’s Most Responsible Companies 2022 list. This award is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., a statistics portal and industry ranking provider.
America’s Most Responsible Companies were reportedly selected based on publicly available key performance indicators (KPIs) derived from corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports, sustainability reports, and corporate citizenship reports, as well as an independent survey. The KPIs focused on company performance in environmental, social, and corporate governance areas, while the independent survey asked U.S. citizens about their perception of company activities related to corporate social responsibility.
The final list recognizes the top 500 most responsible companies in the U.S., spanning 14 industries. Univar reports that its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) approach is driven by its purpose to help keep communities healthy, fed, clean, and safe. This achievement recognizes Univar’s efforts and commitments, including ESG goals related to:
* Climate action
* Safety
* Resource use
* Release prevention
* Sustainable sourcing
* Diversity, equity, and inclusion
* Sustainable solutions
* Community engagement

“We are proud that Newsweek has recognized the progress our team has made since we first established our sustainability goals in 2017,” said David Jukes, president and CEO. “Since our initial sustainability report in 2008, we have consistently demonstrated our commitment to transparency and our ability to deliver on our ambitious goals. We look forward to continuing to lead within the space as we work to achieve our latest set of ESG targets, including reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
According to Jennifer McIntyre, Univar’s chief people and culture officer and executive ESG lead, “Univar Solutions is ecstatic to be recognized on Newsweek’s list of America’s Most Responsible Companies 2022 as this reflects a commitment to grow through both our commercial strategic priorities and sustainability approach, while showing progress against our ESG goals. Managing ESG risks and opportunities is essential to the way we do business as we look for ways to make a positive impact on society, the environment and economies around the globe.”
Source: ASI

Brenntag Expands Distribution Agreement with SI Group for EMEA

Brenntag recently announced the renewal and expansion of a distribution agreement with SI Group. Brenntag has been distributing SI Group’s plastics solutions products in Europe and Africa; the expanded contract, which is effective immediately, includes chemical intermediates and coatings resins for the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region.
“We are thrilled to add SI Group’s performance chemicals and coating resins products to our portfolio as it enables us to offer a more differentiated range of solutions to our Chemical Intermediates and Coatings customers,” said Sara Ghione, director, Polymers EMEA Brenntag Specialties. “Additionally, it further extends our longstanding and successful partnership with SI Group with the aim to grow together even further.”
SI Group’s plastics solutions products reportedly protect polymers against degradation and aging and thus help to extend the functional life of the final product. The company’s coating resins are used for protective coatings in markets such as metal coating applications, can and beverage packaging, decorative paints, and road markings. The company’s portfolio of performance intermediates are building blocks into chemistries used in a wide range of markets, including surfactants, personal care, agriculture, plastics, and engineering plastics.
“Brenntag is a distribution partner of choice,” said Joey Gullion, senior vice president and chief commercial officer at SI Group. “They have a strong regional footprint combined with robust customer relationships. In addition to providing high-quality, innovative products, SI Group continuously seeks to improve the service level we provide and we’re confident that together with Brenntag we will captivate new customers.”

Source: ASI

Meridian Adhesives Group Acquires American Sealants Inc.

Meridian Adhesives Group (Meridian) announced the acquisition of American Sealants Inc (ASI).
Located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, ASI specializes in the innovation of product assembly adhesives and sealants. These dynamic solutions are used in multiple applications and markets, including industrial, DIY, transportation, residential and commercial building, and construction.
ASI will join Meridian’s Industrial Division, which serves the Flooring, Packaging and Product Assembly markets. The company brings a broad product line and technology base to the division’s Product Assembly category.
“ASI is a valuable addition to the Meridian portfolio, further extending our reach as a full-service solution provider of high-performance adhesives and sealants to our customers,” said Daniel Pelton, CEO of Meridian Adhesives Group. “We are excited to have ASI drive our Product Assembly focus, and we are looking forward to the company’s extensive product offering and technology base broadening the solutions we can offer our customers.”

Established in 1987, ASI provides sealant and adhesive technical support and packaging solutions to customers around the world. The company offers high volume users the opportunity to private label silicone and sealant products, while simultaneously providing custom packaging innovations.
The company will be led by President Andrew Zaremba, as past president, Chris Zaremba, steps into a consulting role.
“Our ASI team is enthusiastic about joining Meridian,” said Andrew Zaremba. “Having the backing of Meridian will allow us to further grow our business and support our customers. I have worked with the Meridian team in the past and am looking forward to the innovative technology and expertise this portfolio of leading companies brings to this partnership.”

Source: PR Newswire

IGM Resins Partners with Solindis for EMEA Region

IGM Resins recently announced the creation of Solindis, a new company that will act as the exclusive distributor for IGM for a large group of European, Middle East and African (EMEA) customers as of Jan. 1, 2022.
Due to the continuous growth of IGM’s business, under the umbrella of its “Go Grow Green” strategy, it was time for IGM to develop a strong distribution model in EMEA. Solindis, a new company led by Ruud Kuijsters and Frans de Wind, is an independent distributor of specialty chemicals with a focus on the energy curing industry. With Kuijsters’ and de Wind’s experience and contribution to the growth of IGM in the past 16 years, IGM Resins is confident that its partnership with Solindis will provide customers in the UV market with outstanding quality and customer service. The partnership will also allow IGM Resins to serve the growing and changing needs in the energy curing market.
IGM’s CEO, Wilfrid Gambade, said, “I’m proud that IGM could establish a tailor-made distribution model that will support the growth and the continuous increasing market needs with the creation of Solindis, a company that will work closely and at arm’s length with IGM to improve the service level and support the market and to better serve a customer portfolio fragmented in a very large geographical region like EMEA.”

Source: PCI

Medmix Joins Adhesive and Sealant Council

Medmix recently announced that it has joined the Adhesive and Sealant Council (ASC) as a new member. The ASC counts nearly 100 adhesive and sealant manufacturers, raw material and equipment suppliers, distributors, and industry consultants among its members, representing roughly 75% of the industry in North America.
“Joining this leading association will help us accelerate our advanced packaging technologies for adhesives and sealants,” said Richard Wilson, medmix head of sales for the America region. “Knowledge sharing across the adhesive and sealant community is not only an important component for expanding our offering in North America, but also ensuring the overall health of the wider industry. We’re looking forward to engaging with new programs and services, as well as our fellow members, to support our long-term strategic goals such as improving sustainability.”
Collaboration between the two organizations has reportedly begun, with medmix working closely with the ASC to inform the industry regarding technical advancements in industrial adhesives. The company was present at the recent ASC Convention & EXPO, where it delivered a presentation entitled “Reduce Plastic Waste with Collapsible, Multi-layer, Film Packaging for 2K Materials.”

Source: ASI

Hexion Announces Agreement to Sell Epoxy Businesses to Westlake Chemical

Hexion Holdings Corp. recently announced that, as a result of its ongoing strategic review, it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its epoxy-based Coatings and Composite businesses, which includes the epoxy specialty resins and base epoxy resins and intermediates product lines, for approximately $1.2 billion to Westlake Chemical Corp. The Epoxy Business generated total sales of approximately $1.5 billion for the 12 months ended September 30, 2021, and was reported within Hexion’s Coatings and Composites reportable segment.
The transaction includes approximately 1,300 associates and eight manufacturing facilities globally. The company expects to use the sale proceeds to further pay down debt and to invest in its business. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2022, subject to customary regulatory approvals and other closing conditions as well as prior Works Councils consultation.
“With the continued strong performance of our Epoxy Business, and after a comprehensive evaluation of strategic actions, our Board and management team have determined that this sale maximizes value for our shareholders and is in the best interests of all of our stakeholders,” said Craig Rogerson, chairman, president, and CEO. “Today’s announcement is aligned with our ongoing commitment towards creating value for our shareholders. Our associates in the Epoxy Business will be joining a leading global chemical manufacturer and we believe that the Epoxy Business will be well positioned going forward with Westlake as its new owner. On behalf of everyone at Hexion, I would like to thank our associates within our epoxy businesses for their many contributions over the years. I am confident they will have exciting opportunities ahead.”
Following completion of the transaction, Hexion will consist of its existing Adhesives and Versatic™ Acids and Derivatives product lines. The company reports that its management team and board of directors will continue to evaluate strategic value creation options, including a proposed initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange.

Source: ASI

New AMP™ Advanced Modified Polymer Sealants from DAP® Designed to Outperform Silicone

Professionals and do-it-yourselfers alike will be amped to try DAP’s new advanced hybrid sealants that outperform silicone and provide maximum performance for every project. Combining the best attributes from traditional silicone and polyurethane technologies, the AMP family of sealants from DAP features superior weather ability and durability. They can be used in extreme temperatures and prevent mold and mildew growth, rivalling any other high-performance product in the market today.

AMP advanced hybrid sealants offer a wide variety of project and application solutions. Developed for both exterior applications – such as windows, doors, siding, trim, gutter, flashing and concrete – and interior applications like kitchen and bath projects, the new AMP line delivers a 100% weatherproof and waterproof seal. It can be applied on wet and damp surfaces, offers extreme temperature use of 0°F to 140°F, features fast and efficient 30-minute paint and rain/water ready times, and is backed by a lifetime mold and mildew resistance guarantee.
“While there are many sealant options to choose from, our line up of AMP Hybrid Sealants leapfrogs traditional sealant performance to provide maximum project performance that can’t be matched,” said Megan Youngs, Director of Product Management – Caulks and Sealants at DAP, a leader in the home improvement and construction products industry. “For exterior applications, users will appreciate that AMP offers superior weather ability and durability, can be applied in extreme temperatures while staying flexible, and is UV resistant with strong substrate adhesion. AMP’s innovative hybrid technology also offers proven wet surface application and prevents mold and mildew growth, which gives users long-lasting confidence whether their job is inside or out.
“AMP solves frustrations where other hybrid technologies have fallen short,” added Youngs. “This advanced modified polymer sealant applies and tools smoothly, with no stringiness, is low odor, and is non-hazy during applications and once cured.”

All4Labels Opens New Center of Excellence

All4Labels recently announced that it has opened a Center of Excellence (CoE) in Salerno, Italy. The company reports that it is focused on fostering new ideas and knowledge among talents, customers, universities, and start-ups. Its goal is to develop sustainable label and packaging products and technologies for Industry 4.0.
The CoE aims to undertake new R&D investments over the next five years totalling approximately €3 million (approximately $3.4 million) each year. The new hub will reportedly be an open ecosystem, designed to promote and support innovation both inside and outside of All4Labels. AI, IoT, and biomimetics will steer co-development for new interactive and functional packaging solutions. The aim is also to achieve a higher level of digitization, leading to the creation of new business models that have the potential to inspire labelling and packaging sectors worldwide.
“At All4Labels, mentoring and developing talents is and has always been one of our primary goals, enabling people to make a difference and be part of our DNA for success,” said Günther Weymans, COO, during the inauguration event. “With the CoE we want to equip and stimulate specialists to conceptualize, create and prototype the best and most sustainable packaging solutions, keeping in mind the needs of the consumer of the future. We pursue excellence in everything we do, and the CoE is further evidence for that. All4Labels wants to succeed in being a pioneer in the industry, helping to boost innovation within Industry 4.0.”
According to All4Labels, every action at the CoE will also be guided by respect for sustainability principles. The company rethinks labelling and packaging with a view to the circular economy, including considering different regional regulations on recycling, promoting dialogue, and sharing ideas with the entire value chain.

Arkema Increases Ranking in Dow Jones Sustainability World Index

Arkema recently announced that it has been recognized among the chemicals sector’s global leaders in sustainability in the 2021 Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI). For the second consecutive year, Arkema has ranked among the leaders out of the 139 companies assessed in the Chemicals category. With a score of 82 out of 100 from the Standard & Poor’s global CSA, Arkema has improved its ranking and is now third in the DJSI World and second in the DJSI Europe.

Arkema reports that these rankings reflect its commitment and performance in the environmental, social, economic, and governance dimensions. The rankings are particularly based on good results achieved in the areas of innovation and customer relationship management, climate strategy and water management, environmental and social reporting, and human capital development.

“With our expertise in material science and through our innovative Specialty Materials, Arkema is riding the wave of profound and rapid change, contributing with its solutions to a more sustainable world and helping address social, environmental and economic challenges,” said Thierry Le Hénaff, chairman and CEO of Arkema. “This very good ranking is a recognition of our teams’ constant improvement and proactive approach.”

According to Arkema, it supports the target defined by the Paris Agreement to keep global warming “well below 2°C” above pre-industrial levels by 2100. The group has committed to reducing its absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030 compared to 2015, regardless of the growth in its business activities. In order to steer its product offering ever more actively toward sustainable solutions, Arkema has initiated a systematic assessment of its sales portfolio in light of sustainability criteria, with the objective that 65% of the group’s sales significantly contribute to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

Henkel Adhesive Technologies Announces 2021 Supplier Award Recipients: BASF, Eastman, and Schütz

Henkel Adhesive Technologies recently announced that it has awarded the performance of three strategic partners with its 2021 Supplier Awards. BASF SE, Eastman Chemical Co., and Schütz GmbH & Co. KGaA received awards in the categories of Sustainability, Innovation, and Operational Excellence, respectively. With these annual recognitions, the business unit honors the close and successful collaboration across its value chains.

“The close collaboration with our strategic suppliers and partners is a key success factor to drive sustainable innovations and to generate value for our customers,” said Jan-Dirk Auris, executive vice president for Henkel Adhesive Technologies. “Especially in today’s volatile markets that are currently characterized by a strong pressure on the global supply chains our longstanding and robust partnerships are of utmost importance for our business. This makes it even more important to recognize the efforts and outstanding achievements of our suppliers.”
Due to ongoing COVID-19 limitations, the award ceremony was conducted as a hybrid event. The physical ceremony was held at the Henkel headquarters in the Adhesive Technologies’ new Inspiration Center Düsseldorf. In addition to raw materials suppliers, the company also welcomed partners in the areas of logistics and packaging at the event.

“Our strategic supplier program aims to set the foundation for a strong ecosystem alongside our value chains,” Auris said. “We believe that we together can unlock new potentials especially with regards to sustainable solutions that respond to the demands of the markets and that help creating value for our customers.”