Leading distributor Univar, currently merging with US rival Nexeo Solutions, has been chosen by Braskem to distribute the Brazilian petrochemical group’s polyisobutylenes (PIBs) in the Nordics (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Iceland), France, Italy and Turkey.

Univar said Braskem required large-scale distribution capabilities to grow further in the market.

"We are very excited by this new partnership with Braskem, which combines the strength of one of the world's larger PIB producers with Univar's strong distribution network and deep industry and customer knowledge," said Philippe Seurin, industrial specialties director of Univar EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa).

In separate news, Univar’s wholly owned e-distribution subsidiary ChemPoint has expanded its relationship with PMC Biogenix, a US-based manufacturer of specialty chemicals based on renewable resources, to include distribution in Mexico, with effect from September 2018.

ChemPoint will manage order placement and fulfilment and provide technical support for PMC’s slip agents and anti-block additives Kemamide and Armoslip, stearic acids Hystrene and Industrene along with the metallic stearate portfolio.

PMC should benefit from ChemPoint’s unique business model that focuses on demand creation, the e-distribution service said.