Univar to Acquire Basic Chemical Solutions

Univar Inc. and Basic Chemical Solutions, L.L.C. (BCS), a global distributor and trader of commodity chemicals, announced that they have signed a definitive agreement for Univar to acquire BCS. The acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of 2011.
    
BCS has a worldwide infrastructure with 29 offices in 15 countries, and another 46 owned or contracted chemical terminal locations. In 2009, BCS had sales of $889 million.
    
The acquisition will enhance Univar’s ability to provide value in the supply chain between the company and chemical end-users and strengthen its global sourcing capabilities.
    
“We are extremely pleased to announce this combination with Basic Chemical Solutions,” said John Zillmer, president and CEO of Univar. “Mark Byrne and his leadership team have a proven track record and we are excited about them joining Univar. We expect this to provide considerable benefit for our customers and suppliers.”
    
“Our long-standing supplier relationships, global sourcing capability and mini-bulk services provide a perfect complement to Univar’s global operations,” said Mr. Byrne, CEO of BCS. “The combination will create synergies by providing enhanced services for our customers, better geographical coverage and improved economies of scale.”