Safic-Alcan acquires US distributor Rit-Chem

Paris – Safic-Alcan has acquired 100% of Rit-Chem Co., Inc. a New York-based ‘boutique chemical distributor’ specialising in the performance and life science sectors.

Rit-Chem will become part of the Chemspec, the US affiliate of the Safic-Alcan Group, the French distributor announced in a 27 Sept statement.

Established in 1972 by Henry Ritell, Rit-Chem started initially supplying speciality chemicals to the paint and coatings manufacturers, before diversifying in fields such as rubber, plastic and food/feed.

“The acquisition of Rit-chem is a strong step forward for our ambitions in North America, and will complement perfectly Chemspec’s current activities,” said Yann Lissillour, head of mergers and acquisitions for Safic-Alcan Group.

Mainly covering the North American market, Rit-Chem represents “key market leaders” while also offering its own branded product lines.