News Markets & Companies
Merck completes sale of Surface Solutions to GNMI
Merck has finalised the sale of its Surface Solutions business to Global New Material International (GNMI) for EUR 665 million. The business will operate under the new brand Susonity, with GNMI ensuring long-term commitments for staff and sites in Germany.
Merck has completed the sale of its global Surface Solutions business to Global New Material International Holdings for EUR 665 million. The transaction, which received all necessary regulatory approvals, includes a site guarantee for Gernsheim and an employment guarantee for employees in Germany until 2032.
The Surface Solutions business generated more than EUR 400 million in sales in 2024. Around 1,100 employees, including more than 600 in Germany, have transferred to GNMI. Under the new brand Susonity, the business will maintain production sites in Gernsheim, Savannah (USA) and Onahama (Japan).
Strategic focus on technology-driven core businesses
Merck CEO Belén Garijo emphasised that the divestment aligns with the company’s strategy to sharpen its focus on technology-driven businesses. Recent acquisitions, such as SpringWorks Therapeutics, HUB Organoids, Unity-SC and Mirus Bio, reflect this approach.
Following the sale, Merck’s Electronics business will concentrate even more on semiconductor solutions. At the same time, GNMI plans to expand the product portfolio of Susonity and strengthen its position in the pearlescent pigments market.
Long-term commitments and cooperation agreements
As part of the agreement, the Gernsheim site will remain under Merck’s ownership, with GNMI leasing the required space for Surface Solutions operations under a long-term contract. The GreenTech Park Fluxum in Gernsheim is not affected by the sale.
Merck and GNMI have signed a range of supply and service agreements to ensure a smooth transition of operations. GNMI CEO Ertian Su highlighted the complementary strengths of both companies and expressed confidence in further growth in this dynamic market segment.
