BASF acquires Chemetall for complete paint shop solutions

BASF has expanded its Paints Division portfolio by acquiring Chemetall, Albemarle's global surface treatment company, to serve as a more comprehensive solution provider. BASF is combining its knowledge and experience in chemistry and paint applications with Chemetall's market-leading expertise in surface treatment. As a result of the merger, the companies will benefit from each other's global infrastructure, scale and market access, offering customers unique solution capabilities and creating new growth opportunities. Markus Kamieth, Head of BASF's Paints Division, said: "The acquisition of Chemetall will enable us to significantly expand our market. By bringing together the expertise and innovation power of two global market leaders, we will accelerate innovation and make our customers far more successful." Chemetall develops and manufactures specialized technology and system solutions for surface treatment. Its products protect metals from corrosion, facilitate forming and processing, ensure optimal preparation of parts for the painting process, and enable paint to adhere properly. These chemicals are used in numerous industries and end markets such as automotive, aerospace, aluminum finishing and metal forming. Chemetall's full-year 2015 revenue was USD 845 million. To prepare for seamless integration, BASF has established a Global Integration Management Team that will ensure business continuity while prioritizing meeting customer needs.