Brenntag Acquires Chemical Distribution Activities Of Centralchem
Centralchem’s site in Bratislava
Photo: Brenntag
SLOVAKIA On January 9, 2008, two years of purchase negotiations between Brenntag and Centralchem were successfully concluded. As part of the purchase agreement, Brenntag will take over one of Centralchem’s two chemical distribution units in Slovakia. The company will retain the other division, the distribution of laboratory chemicals, under its original name and continue these activities in an agreed-upon volume. Rudolf Bezák, Managing Director of Brenntag SK, says: "This acquisition means a long-range strengthening of Brenntag’s position in the Slovakian market. It also brings with it an increase in sales, an increase in internal operating profit and a significant growth in production." Centralchem started distributing chemical products in the central Slovakian market in 1995 – about the same time as Brenntag. Centralchem originally operated as a sales channel for the products of its parent company, Detox. On the basis of these products, in particular organochlorides/chlorinated hydrocarbons, the company was quickly able to supply an extensive, practically exhaustive range of chemical raw materials. By gradually adding new raw materials to its product lines and massively expanding its sales area, the company established itself as a distributor of chemical products throughout Slovakia. Centralchem opened a branch office in Bratislava in 2003. As part of the agreement, Brenntag in Slovakia also took over three employees who were a major factor in the success of the company. Rudolf Bezák adds: "Within just a few months of the acquisition, it was evident that we made absolutely the right decision. The results look promising and initial synergies are being established." Further information:www.brenntag-cee.com
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