Ecolab to Acquire Georgia-Pacific's Paper Chemicals Business

Ecolab Inc has signed an agreement to acquire the paper chemicals business from Georgia-Pacific. This business supplies differentiated products and applications that provide strength, softness and durability to paper. These products and applications will enhance Ecolab’s position in the growing tissue and towel, as well as the packaging and board segments of the paper industry. The business had 2016 revenues of approximately $43 million. The transaction is expected to be completed before the end of the year subject to customary closing conditions. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The acquisition will expand the paper industry offerings of Ecolab’s Paper business, which provides innovative chemistries and solutions, to help producers improve their efficiency, water and energy savings, product quality, and profitability.

"This acquisition will enable us to provide additional value to our customers who strive to produce higher-quality paper more efficiently while preserving natural resources," said Christophe Beck, executive vice president and president, Nalco Water, Ecolab’s water management business. "The chemistries gained through this transaction will complement our existing solutions and provide greater opportunity to customize end-to-end programs that meet the needs of our customers."

"We believe this sale to a global industry leader like Ecolab’s Nalco Water will be in the best interest of our customers and stakeholders," said Rick Urschel, president, Georgia-Pacific Chemicals.