Univar Solutions and BASF Deepen Their Partnership for Essential Industrial Ingredients

Univar Solutions and BASF Strengthen Their Distribution Agreement

On August 14, 2025, Univar Solutions USA LLC, a prominent global distributor of specialty ingredients and chemicals, announced a significant expansion of its partnership with BASF. This expanded distribution agreement is set to facilitate the supply of critical specialty ingredients utilized across industrial applications in the United States and Canada.

A Strategic Collaboration

Under the terms of this agreement, Univar Solutions and its Canadian affiliate, Univar Solutions Canada Ltd., have become exclusive distributors for specific BASF specialty ingredients. This includes key products such as Capromer™, 1,6-Hexanediol (HDO®) in both molten and flake forms, and epsilon-caprolactone. These essential ingredients are vital for a variety of applications including high-performance coatings, adhesives, and polymer systems, all of which are pivotal in industrial manufacturing.

Meeting the Demand for High-Performance Products

The collaboration between Univar Solutions and BASF comes as the demand for advanced formulation materials in the polyurethane, coatings, and adhesives sectors continues to intensify. As industries strive to enhance product performance and sustainability, the availability of these specialty ingredients will provide manufacturers with the critical building blocks necessary for innovation.

Matthew Oliver, the Global Vice President of Performance Materials for Univar Solutions, expressed his enthusiasm about solidifying their partnership with BASF. "We aim to foster a growth-driven environment. Together, we can tackle complex challenges and enhance supply security while meeting the unique needs of our customers. These specialized ingredients are crucial for our clients’ product innovations and tailored market solutions,” Oliver stated.

The Importance of Specialty Ingredients

The chemicals included in this distribution agreement—specifically Capromer™, HDO, and epsilon-caprolactone—are frequently chosen by formulators for their diverse applications. They serve as foundational materials in developing durable, flexible, and weather-resistant industrial products. HDO is particularly valuable as it is essential for creating industrial coatings that feature lower VOC formulations, polyurethanes, and adhesives, alongside contributing to the formulation of epoxy systems used in manufacturing wind turbine components and lightweight automotive parts.

Timothy Cavanaugh, the Business Director of Diols, Acids, and Polyalcohols for BASF Corporation, shared his excitement regarding this strengthened partnership. "This collaboration enhances our ability to supply high-quality specialty ingredients across various industries and support our customers in their innovation journeys. Together, we're equipping businesses to confront regulatory challenges and optimize product performance,” Cavanaugh noted.

Supporting Innovation and Technical Challenges

The focus of this distribution partnership is not only on supplying essential ingredients but also on providing customers with insights and tools to navigate complex technical challenges in product development. By combining their expertise and resources, Univar Solutions and BASF are dedicated to offering innovative solutions that meet today's market demands while supporting industries to innovate responsibly.

About the Companies

Univar Solutions stands out as a leader in the distribution of specialty chemicals and ingredients. With a commitment to promoting health and safety in communities, the company operates the industry's largest private transportation fleet alongside a talented sales force and extensive logistical capabilities. For more details about Univar Solutions, visit univarsolutions.com.

BASF Corporation, headquartered in New Jersey, is a major player in the chemical industry, highlighting its ambition to enable a sustainable future. By focusing on creating chemistry for various sectors, they remain committed to merging economic success with environmental stewardship. For additional information, visit basf.com/us.

In a rapidly evolving market, this partnership between Univar Solutions and BASF is poised to drive significant advancements in product development and industrial manufacturing, ensuring that customers receive the highest-quality components for their most innovative projects.