Borealis, Nexeo Solutions expand distribution partnership

Chemical supplier Borealis has expanded its partnership with global plastics distributor Nexeo Solutions to target the rigid and flexible packaging and fibre market, as well as the automotive, healthcare and infrastructure industries.

According to a joint statement, the new Borealis distribution strategy will see Nexeo become the pan-European distributor for Borealis, to help Borealis “increase growth in key European regions such as Germany, France, Benelux, UK, and enable continuous improvement in service.”

While the new strategy targets the rigid and flexible packaging and fibre market, it also includes healthcare grades, infrastructure and automotive applications, the statement said. “The increasingly competitive landscape of the European polymers market requires a more consistent approach that comprehensively addresses all key applications and enables more sustainable growth in Europe,” it said.

Borealis and Nexeo – which was a part of Ashland Chemical up until 2011 – entered into what they describe as Europe’s first pan-European polyolefin distribution partnership in 1996 with the distribution of Borealis PE and PP products to small and medium-sized customers. The partnership deepened in 2012, when Borealis and Nexeo joined forces to distribute products in North America.

“We are very pleased to take our partnership with Nexeo Solutions to the next level,” said Rainer Hoefling, vice president, Borealis Sales Polyolefins. “Both companies have ambitious targets when it comes to profitable growth. Reinforcing an already robust partnership will make it easier for both parties to realise these targets. Through this partnership, both our companies and our customers will benefit and it will enhance our standing in the European market.”

Borealis is headquartered in Vienna. Nexeo’s Canadian operation – Nexeo Solutions Canada Corp. – is located in Mississauga, Ont.