Arkema has announced a project for Bostik to acquire Prochimir, a company specialising in high performance thermo-bonding adhesive films. The acquisition would enable Bostik to broaden its offering of solvent-free thermo-bonding solutions earmarked for many fast-growing industrial applications in the automotive, construction, textile, and medical markets.

The acquisition will position Bostik among world-leading players in thermos-bonding films, and is part of Bostik’s strategy to expand through acquisitions targeting leading technologies in a market that remains fragmented, according to Arkema.

Thanks to its technical expertise and capacity for innovation, Prochimir develops and markets high performance thermo-bonding films, used in a growing number of applications in the automotive, construction, textile and healthcare sectors. These environmentally sound solutions ensure excellent adhesion on materials, hence addressing many bonding issues.

Prochimir is a renowned expert in thermo-bond films and breathable membranes with strong commercial positions with its customers, leaders in their markets. The company operates two leading production facilities, in France and in the US, employs 85 people, and currently reports €30 million sales, with steady growth in the last five years. Prochimir’s innovative solutions are sold around the world, and exports account for 75 per cent of sales.

The activity perfectly complements Bostik’s offering in specialty thermo-bonding solutions, and offers plenty of strong technological and commercial synergies that will speed up Bostik’s development in the fast-growing markets of adhesive bonding. Closing of the deal is expected in fourth quarter 2019, subject to consultation of trade unions and approval by the antitrust authorities in the relevant countries. (GK)