Solutia acquires Flexsys rubber chemicals business

Solutia Inc. on May 2 completed its purchase of Akzo Nobel N.V.'s 50 percent interest in Flexsys, the world's leading supplier of chemicals to the rubber industry. Flexsys was formed in 1995 as a 50/50 joint venture between Solutia and Akzo Nobel; effective May 2, it will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Solutia.

Flexsys becomes the fourth major platform in Solutia's business portfolio, joining Performance Products which consists of Saflex laminated glass interlayers and specialty chemicals, CPFilms aftermarket window films, and an integrated family of nylon products.

"Solutia's businesses are world leaders in their markets, and Flexsys is the world leader in rubber chemicals. This truly global business will become an integral part of Solutia," said Jeffry N. Quinn, chairman, president and CEO of Solutia.

James R. Voss has been named senior vice president and president of Flexsys. He previously served as Solutia's senior vice president – business operations. Enrique Bolanos, who led Flexsys for the past eight years, will remain active in the business and will help with the transition of Flexsys into Solutia.

"Flexsys brings Solutia a portfolio of strong products, a great team of people, and unparalleled knowledge of the technology and the market," Voss said. "Solutia will contribute clear strategy, crisp decision-making and strong corporate leadership."

Flexsys products play an important role in the manufacture of tires and other rubber products, such as belts, hoses, seals and footwear. These chemicals help control the process of manufacturing rubber, determine its performance characteristics and improve the durability, flexibility and appearance of rubber.

Flexsys is a global business with offices, manufacturing facilities and technology centers around the world and employs approximately 600 people worldwide. Flexsys has annual sales of $600 million, about two-thirds of which take place outside the United States.