BASF completes sale of optical brightening agent business to Catexel, transferring Monthey production and employees while strengthening both companies’ strategic focus.
The divestment of BASF’s optical brightening agent (OBA) business to Catexel has been successfully finalized by the end of February 2026, marking a strategic shift in BASF’s portfolio optimization efforts. Optical brightening agents are widely used components in laundry detergents, where they enhance the appearance of fabrics by improving whiteness and brightness. While the agreement represents a significant transaction in the specialty chemicals segment, both BASF and Catexel have mutually decided not to disclose any financial details related to the deal.
The scope of the transaction includes BASF’s global optical brightening agent business, encompassing production assets, customer relationships, and associated operations. A key element of the deal is the transfer of manufacturing activities at BASF’s Monthey site in Switzerland, which plays a central role in the production of OBAs. This ensures continuity of supply and operational stability for customers worldwide. Additionally, as part of the transition, approximately 80 employees previously working within BASF’s OBA business have been transferred to Catexel. This move not only preserves jobs but also allows Catexel to retain experienced personnel and technical expertise essential for maintaining product quality and innovation.
Catexel operates as the Care Chemicals platform of the International Chemical Investors Group (ICIG), a well-established investor focused on specialty chemical businesses. Through Catexel, ICIG has built a strong presence in the care chemicals sector, offering a diverse range of high-performance products tailored for applications such as detergents and cleaning solutions, personal care formulations, and various industrial uses. The acquisition of BASF’s OBA business aligns with Catexel’s growth strategy, enabling it to strengthen its portfolio and expand its capabilities in the detergent and cleaning ingredients market.
For BASF, the completion of this transaction reflects its ongoing commitment to streamline its operations and focus on core areas where it can deliver higher value and innovation. Despite divesting the OBA segment, BASF continues to maintain a strong position as a leading supplier in the broader care chemicals market. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of ingredients used across personal care, home care, industrial and institutional cleaning, and a wide range of technical applications. This strategic realignment allows BASF to concentrate resources on key growth segments while ensuring that the divested business is placed in capable hands for future development.
Overall, the transaction represents a mutually beneficial arrangement. Catexel gains an established business with a strong market presence and operational infrastructure, while BASF advances its strategic priorities by optimizing its portfolio. The seamless transition of assets, employees, and production capabilities underscores the commitment of both parties to maintaining business continuity and supporting customer needs in the global detergent and specialty chemicals industry.
