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INEOS Enterprises sells sulphur dioxide business to Ecovyst for EUR 180 million

INEOS Enterprises has reached an agreement to sell its ultra-pure sulphur dioxide and derivatives business, INEOS Calabrian, to Ecovyst for EUR 180 million. The sale aligns with INEOS’ portfolio strategy and is expected to be completed by mid-2026.

INEOS Calabrian specialises in ultra-pure sulphur dioxide production, with sites in the USA and Canada. Source: INEOS

INEOS Enterprises has announced the sale of its INEOS Calabrian business to Ecovyst for a total valuation of EUR 180 million. INEOS Calabrian, known for its production of ultra-pure sulphur dioxide and related derivatives, operates manufacturing facilities in Port Neches, Texas, USA, and Timmins, Ontario, Canada. The transaction is anticipated to close by the end of June 2026, pending customary regulatory approvals.

According to INEOS Enterprises, the decision to sell INEOS Calabrian reflects its long-term portfolio strategy. Ashley Reed, Chairman of INEOS Enterprises, commented, “INEOS Calabrian has been part of INEOS Enterprises for the past ten years, during which time it has delivered significant improvements in safety, operational performance, and financial results. This transaction, valued at $190 million, reflects our disciplined approach to portfolio management – acquiring businesses, improving them at pace, and realising value.”

Strategic alignment and operational continuity

INEOS Enterprises emphasised that INEOS Calabrian is a robust semi-speciality chemicals business but does not align with INEOS’ core strategic focus. The sale to Ecovyst, a company specialising in advanced catalysts and materials, is seen as an opportunity for INEOS Calabrian to enter its next growth phase under new ownership.

Until the transaction is complete, INEOS Enterprises will continue to operate INEOS Calabrian as usual. No changes are anticipated for customer or supplier arrangements during the transition. Reed added, “Calabrian is a strong, well-positioned semi-speciality chemicals business. However, it is not a core fit within INEOS’ long-term portfolio. Ecovyst is well placed to take the business forward and support its next phase of growth.”

Implications for the sulphur dioxide sector

INEOS Calabrian’s facilities in North America produce ultra-pure sulphur dioxide, which is widely used in applications such as chemicals manufacturing, wastewater treatment, and food preservation. The sale to Ecovyst could bring new opportunities for innovation and market expansion, particularly in sustainability-driven sectors.

This transaction is part of ongoing trends in the chemicals industry, where portfolio optimisation and strategic divestments are increasingly prioritised by multinational corporations. Industry stakeholders will be monitoring how Ecovyst integrates INEOS Calabrian into its operations and whether this acquisition strengthens Ecovyst’s market position in speciality chemicals.