AMSTERDAM — Nouryon is continuing its growth acceleration plans with an agreement to acquire the carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) business of J.M. Huber Corp. The transaction will broaden Nouryon’s portfolio of products in CMC, a sustainable, bio-based water-soluble polymer used as a thickener, binder, stabilizer and film former. The companies have largely complementary positions in CMC end markets, which include home and personal care, mining, food, pharmaceuticals, and paper and packaging.

The business manufactures a complete line of CMC grades and serves customers in over 80 countries, generating sales of around €135 million. It includes a manufacturing facility as well as an advanced R&D facility located at Äänekoski, Finland.

“We are excited by the opportunity to acquire this high-quality business,” said Charlie Shaver, Chairman and CEO of Nouryon. “With an expansive range of products that complements our existing CMC portfolio, this business will allow us to offer our current and future customers a significantly broader set of solutions. This acquisition also confirms our commitment to investing in sustainable growth platforms. We look forward to welcoming the employees of this business into the Nouryon family.”

The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2020, subject to regulatory approvals.