“Politicians need to finally wake up,” said Lanxess board chariman Matthias Zachert. “In the current phase of economic weakness, the location Germany is not competitive internationally. We urgently need sustainable framework conditions – above all an internationally competitive electricity tariff for the industry, the reduction of excessive bureaucracy and faster approval procedures.”

Lanxess has signed a corresponding agreement to acquire the microbial control business of International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) for $1.3 billion or 9.6x EBITA. The deal should be completed in Q2 2022, following a carve-out process and subject to regulatory approvals. This is the firm’s second largest ever buy, just ahead of the recently completed acquisition of Emerald Kalama.

Lanxess has signed a binding agreement to acquire Emerald Kalama Chemical from private equity firm American Securities for €867 million. The deal, which will be financed from existing liquidity, should be completed in Q2, subject to approval by the relevant authorities.

Lanxess has entered into exclusive negotiations to acquire the Theseo Group. Subject to the usual French processes of consultation and regulatory approvals, this should be completed in mid-2021, the company said.

Based at Laval, France, Theseo mainly makes disinfection and hygiene products mainly for livestock farming in Europe and Latin America, particularly pigs and poultry. It is also active in water hygiene.