Solenis LLC, Wilmington, Del., USA, this week announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire the shares in Lostris International B.V. and Wester Blend B.V., privately-held German companies primarily focused on supplying specialty chemicals to the pulp and tissue and towel markets. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter 2016, following receipt of customary regulatory approvals in Germany.

"Lostris’ and Wester Blend’s capabilities complement the current Solenis offerings in the global pulp and tissue and towel markets." said John Panichella, president and CEO, Solenis. "In addition to a strong channel-to-market, Lostris produces unique defoamer formulations, pitch dispersants, and scale control chemistries for the pulp market. It also provides complementary crepe and release products that will further bolster our tissue and towel product range." 

Charles Robinson, SVP, Solenis, added that "this is another excellent example of Solenis’ commitment to invest in the pulp and paper industry."

Eelco van ’t Hoog, Lostris International’s and Wester Blend’s president, said that "we are delighted to work together with the leading supplier of specialty chemicals to the pulp and paper industry to ensure a smooth transition for our customers. By joining together in a shared commitment to solve problems for our customers, the collective strengths of the companies will generate enormous opportunities for exciting new products and growth."

Solenis is a global producer of specialty chemicals for the pulp, paper, oil and gas, chemical processing, mining, biorefining, power, and municipal markets. The company’s product portfolio includes a broad array of process, functional, and water treatment chemistries as well as state-of-the-art monitoring and control systems. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets, and minimize environmental impact. The company has 30 manufacturing facilities strategically located around the globe and employs a team of approximately 3,500 professionals in 118 countries across five continents.