Sudarshan Chemical to Acquire Pigment Maker Heubach Group

Sudarshan Chemical Industries Limited announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with the Germany-based Heubach Group, on its acquisition in a combination of an asset and share deal. This strategic acquisition will create a global pigment company, combining SCIL’s operations and expertise with Heubach’s technological capabilities.  Post-acquisition, the combined company will have a broad pigment portfolio of high-quality products and a strong presence in major markets including Europe and the Americas.

 

The combined company will be led by Mr. Rajesh Rathi and a high performing management team with quality execution skills and technical competency.  The Heubach Group has a 200-year history and became the second largest pigment player in the world after its integration with Clariant in 2022. Heubach had over a billion euros in revenue in FY21 and FY22, with a global footprint especially in Europe, Americas, and the APAC region. The Group faced financial challenges over the past two years due to rising costs, inventory issues, and high interest rates. SCIL’s acquisition of Heubach will address these challenges with a clear turnaround plan.

 

Rajesh Rathi, Managing Director of SCIL said “This transaction brings together two businesses that will cater to major global markets. We will carefully integrate these two companies to create a truly global pigments company, with Frankfurt remaining a strategically important location. SCIL is known for its agility and efficiency, and we will embed this culture throughout the combined company to make it one of the most customer-centric and profitable pigment companies.”

 

The combined entity aims to become the most valuable pigment company in the world with great financial strength and profitability. The acquisition enhances SCIL’s breadth of product portfolio in global markets, gives it an opportunity to serve global customers, especially in Europe and Americas, and a diversified asset footprint across 19 global sites.

 

Heubach has a broad and high-quality product portfolio with a large percentage of specialties including customized products. It serves a strong customer base of global blue-chip customers with applications in coating, plastic, inks, automotive, electrical and electronics. Heubach has 17 manufacturing sites globally providing stability during any geopolitical and supply chain challenges, ensuring long-term relationships with suppliers and customers.

 

The acquisition is expected to close in 3-4 months, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including approvals from regulators and SCIL shareholders.