PRESS RELEASE
Kampenhout, December 3, 2024
New shareholder strengthens Kemetyl Group with two additional production sites, establishing Europe’s largest producer of functional fluids for the automotive industry.
The Jodima Group accelerates its European growth with the acquisition of its Swedish-Dutch peer, Kemetyl. The newly formed group, which will operate under the Kemetyl name, will be led by Axel Van Ranst, the current CEO and shareholder of Jodima Group. This strategic acquisition marks a significant step in Jodima Group's growth ambitions, creating new opportunities for both organisations and their customers.
With this transaction, the Kemetyl Group now operates four production facilities across Northern and Southern Europe in Jordbro (Sweden), Soest (Netherlands), Kampenhout (Belgium), and Vilobí del Penedès (Spain).
The new Kemetyl Group strengthens its position as Europe’s largest provider of functional fluids for the automotive industry. With an annual consolidated turnover of €170 million, a production volume of 150 million litres of fluids, and 255 dedicated employees, the Kemetyl Group solidifies its market position. The strong geographic synergy of the two groups, comprehensive expertise and experience across a wide range of markets, forms a robust foundation for future investments and developments. The newly combined group will better serve its customers with increased production capacity and, most importantly, a broader range of products and services.
About Jodima Group
Jodima, based in Kampenhout, Belgium, has been a leading manufacturer of windshield washer fluids, coolants, and cleaning agents for 45 years. In 2022, the company embarked on a European Buy & Build strategy. To financially support and guide this strategy, the Belgian private equity fund PE Capital Group joined as a shareholder in 2022.
A major milestone was achieved in July 2023 with the acquisition of Spanish market leader IADA, a company with over 60 years of experience in manufacturing high-quality automotive chemicals (maintenance and care), with a strong focus on innovation and
sustainability.
The acquisition of Kemetyl represents a significant step in realizing the ambitious ‘Buy & Build’- strategy. The new group aims to significantly strengthen its position in Europe while laying the groundwork for expansion into the Middle East and Asia.
About Kemetyl Group
Kemetyl Group is an international enterprise specialising in the production and distribution of chemicals and fluids for various industries. With a strong focus on quality and innovation, Kemetyl Group offers a broad range of products, including windshield washer fluids, coolants, cleaning agents, and fuels. The company serves customers in the automotive, retail, and industrial sectors.
Kemetyl Group has operating companies in Sweden, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom, Türkiye, Belgium, Spain, and India. Its global presence makes it a reliable partner for both major brands and smaller players. The existing locations will retain their local, management teams.
New CEO
Axel Van Ranst (53) has been appointed as the new CEO of the Kemetyl Group. With over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry and a proven track record in leading international operations (previously with the publicly traded US-based ITW), he brings extensive expertise and vision. As CEO, he will oversee the existing key management and enhance collaboration between the management teams of both groups.