Univar’s acquisition of Quaron Group Benelux is ready for Closing
- Categories: General
- 19 November 2010
REDMOND, Wash. – November 19, 2010 – Univar, a leading global chemical distributor, announced today that its acquisition of the Quaron business in Belgium and the Netherlands, approved by the European Commission on July 16, 2010, will not require any further regulatory approvals. The transaction is expected to close as scheduled in the first week of January 2011.
Quaron, a major chemical distributor with 5,000 customers in more than 30 countries, has capabilities including laboratories, blending tanks, bulk and warehouse storage in the Benelux region, which makes the Benelux business of Quaron an excellent fit for Univar, its customers and suppliers. It combines its asset base and logistics network with a focus on providing added-valued services. Like Univar, Quaron is committed to safety and environmental protection in every aspect of its operation.
Rapid and seamless integration of Quaron’s Benelux operations into Univar will be a top priority. Univar will focus on making a smooth transition for Quaron’s suppliers and customers, with no disruption to the existing business relationship. Univar will also concentrate on helping employees integrate effectively from both companies, ensuring that human capital on both sides is used to its full potential.
“Culturally and strategically Univar and the Benelux business of Quaron are a great match, and we expect to see significant benefits for suppliers and customers of both companies,” explains John van Osch, President, Univar Europe, Middle East and Africa. “The addition of Quaron’s logistics network, product portfolio and highly skilled employees to our business, as well as their customer relationships, will support our ambitious growth plans in the EMEA region.”
Univar creates value for its customers and suppliers by complementing producers’ sales and marketing teams. The company provides technical expertise in application development, excellence in logistics support and outstanding customer service to help its partners grow their business.
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About Univar
Univar is one of the world’s leading distributors of industrial and specialty chemicals. Univar represents over 2,500 chemical producers and provides its customer base, made up of 80,000 customers, with a full portfolio of products. Univar operates a network of 179 distribution facilities throughout North America, Europe, and China. In 2009, Univar reported sales of $7.2 billion. For more information, visit: www.univar.com.
Operating from 56 distribution centres in 25 countries across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Univar’s 2,200 local employees serve more than 28,900 customers in a diverse range of industries including coatings, food, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and other major sectors. To learn more about Univar Europe, Middle East and Africa, please visit: www.univareurope.com.
About Quaron Benelux
Quaron, a leading chemical distributor in the Netherlands and Belgium, was created in 2003. Since then its successful growth strategy has resulted in the company doubling its size. Excelling in quality, service, safety and care for the environment is Quaron's most important objective. Furthermore, Quaron exports chemical products to more than 30 countries. The main distribution centres in the Benelux are located in Zwijndrecht (the Netherlands) and Tournai/Doornik (Belgium).
For further information please contact:
Catherine Lennon
Communications Director, Europe, Middle East & Africa
Univar Europe
T +32 (0) 2 525 05 63
F +32 (0) 2 520 17 51
M +32 (0) 478 251 588
catherine.lennon@univareurope.com
Julian Rea
Account Manager, CitySavvy PR
T: + 44 (0) 207 395 1000
M: + 44 (0) 7825 66 3000
julian@citysavvy.com