Krahn Chemie has acquired a majority share in Pietro Carini S.p.A., a speciality chemical distributor headquartered in Milan.

Founded in 1868, Pietro Carini is a well-established player in the Italian market in which it represents some first-class chemical producers. Pietro Carini has 27 employees and supplies speciality chemicals to the plastics, rubber, adhesives, sealants, inks, and coatings industries. Pietro Carini was the first Italian chemical distributor which was ESAD II certified.

With the acquisition of Pietro Carini only one year after the takeover of ICH Benelux Krahn Chemie consistently follows its regional growth strategy within Europe started in 2009. Italy is the third largest chemical distribution market in Europe and still very fragmented.

"The acquisition of Pietro Carini is a high strategic fit," Axel Sebbesse, Managing Director of Krahn Chemie, comments. "Pietro Carini provides us with a strong regional footprint and with a solid basis for further growth in the highly attractive Italian market. The long-term relationships to strategic suppliers and the in-depth local industry expertise of the team of Pietro Carini will also strengthen our existing core business segments in Europe."

Enrico Bozzi, Managing Director and co-shareholder of Pietro Carini, states, "Krahn Chemie is a strong partner for Pietro Carini. We both have a very similar market approach by providing added value for our customers through technically driven sales and distribution, close and reliable co-operations and a clear long-term commitment to the market. Being part of the KRAHN CHEMIE Group will ensure stability and sustainable growth for Pietro Carini in Italy - to the benefit of our customers and supplying partners."