October 12/Redmond, Wash., and Redwood City, Calif./Univar Press Release -- Univar Inc., a global chemical distributor, and Basic Chemical Solutions, LLC (BCS), a global distributor and trader of commodity chemicals, signed a definitive agreement for Univar to acquire BCS. The acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of 2011, subject to customary closing conditions.

BCS is a global distributor of a select list of basic commodities with a unique integrated distribution model, combining bulk and mini-bulk chemical distribution with a global procurement and trading platform. The acquisition will enhance Univar’s ability to provide value in the supply chain between the company and chemical end-users and strengthen the company’s global sourcing capabilities.

"We are extremely pleased to announce this combination with Basic Chemical Solutions,” said John Zillmer, president and CEO of Univar. “Mark Byrne and his leadership team have a proven track record and we are excited about them joining Univar. We expect this to provide considerable benefit for our customers and suppliers.”

“Our long-standing supplier relationships, global sourcing capability and mini-bulk services provide a perfect complement to Univar’s global operations,” said Mark Byrne, CEO of BCS. “The combination will create synergies by providing enhanced services for our customers, better geographical coverage and improved economies of scale.”

From the October 18, 2010, Prepared Foods E-dition