Clariant completes acquisition of BASFs U.S. Attapulgite business assets

03 Nov 2022

• Clariant acquired BASF’s U.S. Attapulgite business assets for USD 60 million in cash
• Attapulgite supply strengthens Clariant’s leading technology position in the growing markets for the purification of edible oils and renewable fuels
• Acquisition extends Clariant’s North American footprint
• Underpins Clariant’s bolt-on acquisition strategy and sustainability focus

"This acquisition is a perfect example of our disciplined approach to bolt-on acquisitions as it provides tangible synergies, strengthens one of our core segments and brings us closer to our 2025 targets,” said Conrad Keijzer, Chief Executive Officer at Clariant. “At the same time, the acquisition is another step forward in the energy transition away from fossil-based fuels.”

The newly acquired attapulgite business is one of the largest miners and producers of attapulgite in North America. It encompasses mining operations in Georgia as well as Florida and processing operations in Quincy, Florida. This business is well recognized in the industry for its unique combination of mineral quality, mine reserve size, and strategic location. It produces attapulgite based products for a wide range of applications and end markets, and generated sales of approximately USD 36 million in 2020.

“We are very pleased with the completion of this acquisition in the U.S.,” comments Angela Cackovich, President of Adsorbents & Additives at Clariant. “Along with a strategically valuable business, we also welcome 75 highly qualified professionals. Our increased presence in the region will allow for greater customer proximity and enhances our ability to meet the demands of an attractive, rapidly expanding market.”