News Markets & Companies
New podcast out: Stahl to be acquired by Henkel
Henkel has signed an agreement to acquire Stahl, a global specialist in coatings for flexible materials. In a special episode of the European Coatings Podcast, editor Yeray Arauco speaks with Stahl CEO Maarten Heijbroek about the background of the transaction and its strategic implications for the coatings industry.
Heijbroek explains that discussions with Henkel had been ongoing for several months before the signing. While the deal has been announced, it is still subject to customary conditions, including works council consultations and merger control approvals in multiple jurisdictions. Until these processes are completed, Stahl will remain owned by its current shareholders Wendel, BASF and Clariant.
From a strategic perspective, the acquisition brings together two highly complementary businesses. While Henkel focuses on adhesives and Stahl on coatings, their technologies often converge in the same end products. The combination is expected to strengthen innovation capabilities, deepen customer insights and support further growth, particularly in Asia, which remains Stahl’s most important growth region.
To hear more about the rationale behind the deal, the role of innovation and the outlook for employees and markets, listen to the full conversation with Maarten Heijbroek in the latest European Coatings Podcast:
