CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 21, 2011 – Clariant is expanding its capabilities in the North American deicer market by acquiring Octagon Process LLC, a privately held company based in N.Y. As a result of the acquisition, Clariant will provide customers a broader supply-chain network and enhanced geographic scope.
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
“Through this acquisition, we will be better able to serve the region’s air carriers, airports and service providers through an expanded geographic footprint. We expect that our customers will benefit greatly from enhanced product and service offerings, consistent and reliable supply, and the logistical and sourcing strengths of a truly global organization,” said John Clarke, head of Clariant’s Industrial & Consumer Specialties business in North America.
Through the addition of Octagon’s robust infrastructure and logistics network, Clariant will be able to offer a sustainable and ready supply of Type I, Type III and Type IV aircraft deicing and anti-icing fluids on a national basis, complemented by its existing line of runway deicing products.
Joe McGrail, president of Octagon Process LLC, said, “We are extremely pleased to join forces with a worldclass company like Clariant which offers a strong global network of excellent sourcing, logistics, and service and market-support capabilities. Together we can better meet the needs of our market, develop innovative new products and provide outstanding service to our customers. It’s a win-win.”
The combination of the businesses is expected to expand sales opportunities for increasingly popular “greener” deicing technologies. The combined businesses will be able to offer innovative, proprietary and environmentally responsive products and systems for recycling and fluid-management. These types of services will help American airports comply with stricter federal guidelines for the collection of sprayed deicing fluid being introduced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
“Overall, the combination of Clariant and Octagon represents clear advantages to our customers in terms of innovation, broader supply and technical support capabilities, and environmental sustainability,” said Mathias Luetgendorf, Clariant Executive Committee member.
Michael Willome, head of Clariant’s global Industrial & Consumer Specialties business, commented, “We are pleased to be joining with our new colleagues at Octagon in serving our customers together.”
