ESSEN, Germany—Chemicals distributor Brenntag has purchased the assets and operations of Industrial Chemicals Corp. in a deal that it says will strengthen the Essen-based firm's last-mile operations in North America.
ICC operates a centrally located chemicals distribution facility and transportation hub in Denver that will expand its geographical footprint and its ability to serve customers in the region, Brenntag said.
Details of the acquisition were not disclosed. ICC posted 2023 sales of about $40 million, according to a July 2 news release. Signing and closing of the deal happened simultaneously.
"The location in Denver is a highly compatible fit to our strategy, adding strong local last-mile service operations with a state-of-the-art site to strengthen our regional footprint in North America," Scott Leibowitz, president of Brenntag Essentials North America, said in a statement. "With this acquisition, we will increase service levels and cost efficiency for Brenntag customers while providing Brenntag supply partners with greater access to the local market."
The Biesemeier family has built Industrial Chemicals Corp. over the last 60 years into a leading regional industrial commodity chemical distributor, Brenntag said in its release. The centrally located ICC site in Denver significantly enhances Brenntag's regional presence, as it is directly linked to an inland rail terminal and has large storage capacities.
"I want to welcome all our new colleagues of ICC to our team," Leibowitz said. "Brenntag Essentials combines a cost-efficient network of last-mile service operations with regional sourcing and supply chain services, and global sourcing."
ICC CEO Jamie Biesemeier-Wilkins said, "Brenntag recognized what we have built here, and we're excited to be joining forces with them. It's a great way to expand our reach and better serve our local and regional customers."
Brenntag is a global leader in chemicals and ingredients distribution. It has more than 17,700 employees worldwide and operates about 600 sites in 72 countries. The firm's 2023 sales were nearly $18.2 billion.
