Elementis plc has acquired UK-based Alchemy Ingredients Limited for approximately $22 million, significantly boosting its presence in the natural and sustainable personal care market.
Elementis plc, a global leader in specialty chemicals, today announced the successful completion of a key acquisition that strategically enhances its high-margin Personal Care business. On November 26, 2025, the company finalized the purchase of Alchemy Ingredients Limited, a specialist UK developer of innovative, sustainable functional ingredients, for an enterprise value of approximately $22 million on a cash-free, debt-free basis.
This transaction is a direct execution of Elementis’ Elevate Elementis strategy, which is focused on making disciplined, high-quality bolt-on acquisitions to strengthen its core specialty additives capabilities and drive sustainable, long-term growth. The acquisition immediately strengthens Elementis’ position in the burgeoning natural skincare market, a segment characterized by accelerating consumer demand for natural ingredients and superior sensory benefits.
Alchemy's product portfolio is highly complementary to Elementis' existing offerings, particularly its proprietary hectorite products. Alchemy specializes in natural functional ingredients that act as rheology modifiers—substances that control the flow and texture of products. These ingredients are designed to fully or partially replace synthetic raw materials in high-performance cosmetic and skin care formulations.
Key technologies acquired include the Sucragel® and Sapogel® families for oil gelling, and Clearthix® and Sclerothix® for water gelling. These blends enable formulators to achieve unique sensory profiles and textures, which will significantly enhance Elementis’ overall cosmetic and skincare range.
Alchemy has demonstrated a strong track record of organic growth, with its revenue for the financial year 2025 projected to exceed $6 million, alongside attractive margins. Elementis plans to utilize its robust global sales and distribution network, coupled with its deep application knowledge and technical expertise, to significantly scale Alchemy's successful business platform.
Luc van Ravenstein, CEO of Elementis, commented enthusiastically on the deal, stating that the acquisition is "right in our personal care sweet spot" and "strengthens our position in the growing natural skincare market." He emphasized the significant potential for growth: "Leveraging our global sales and marketing footprint, we see significant potential to scale the business and deliver value."
The acquisition of Alchemy, which employs approximately 20 employees and is based in Ascot, UK, underscores Elementis' commitment to being an innovation leader in specialty chemicals, offering distinctive solutions that improve product performance, streamline production, and enhance sustainability credentials for customers across its key industries.
