KBS - Chemical Manufacturing and Development - Market Insight

KEY DRIVERS AND MOTIVATIONS FOR ACQUIRERS

Trade buyers have been acquiring mid-sized speciality chemical players with strong IP, loyal customer bases and advanced R&D capabilities.

There has been a focus on high value and cross-border acquisitions across Europe and the US since 2024. Firms are looking to develop sustainability through acquisitions, for example by improving their formulations or by introducing low-carbon manufacturing. Moreover, companies which leverage digital tools for production efficiency, supply chain resilience or customer personalisation often receive higher valuations.

Finally, acquirers aim to vertically integrate, controlling more of their supply chains and routes to markets.