UK specialty chemical and technology group Johnson Matthey has announced it is reorganizing its corporate divisions with immediate effect. It has retained four divisions but some businesses have been moved to new segments. The Royston-headquartered company said the initiative is designed to increase its focus and build a more collaborative organization as well as reflect its position as a science-led group.

The sectors are now aligned with the global priorities of cleaner air, the efficient use of natural resources and improved health. The former Emission Control Technologies division is now Clean Air, while Process Technologies and much of Precious Metal Products have joined to form the Efficient Natural Resources division. Johnson Matthey said there is an opportunity to deepen its presence in the chemicals, oil and gas, and industrial markets, enabling customers to “make more out of less”.

The new Health business comprises much of the Fine Chemicals division. Johnson Matthey believes it is well positioned to grow in this segment by focusing on niche areas where it can use its expertise in complex chemistry. New Markets encompasses the New Businesses division as well as Medical Components and Catalysis and Chiral Technologies, the latter two were formerly part of Precious Metals and Fine Chemicals, respectively.

In separate news, Johnson Matthey has officially opened a new center for coatings and surface solutions at its West Whiteland site in Chester County, Pennsylvania, USA. The facility, which the company said enables it to enhance the performance of its medical and industrial components, includes a physical vapour deposition laboratory and two process chambers for 2D and 3D coatings.