INEOS Inovyn will sell its Italian chlor-alkali business to Esseco Industrial, ensuring continuity while strengthening Esseco’s chemical industry presence.
INEOS Inovyn has entered into a definitive agreement to divest its ownership stake in INOVYN Produzione Italia SpA, the company responsible for operating the Rosignano and Tavazzano chemical production facilities in Italy. The buyer in this transaction is Esseco Industrial, a well-established industrial holding entity within the Esseco Group. This move reflects a strategic shift for INEOS Inovyn while ensuring continuity for the operations and workforce associated with these sites.
The Rosignano and Tavazzano plants play a crucial role in the production of key chemical substances that are vital across multiple industries. These include pharmaceuticals, energy generation, water purification, food processing, defense, and construction. Such chemicals form the backbone of numerous supply chains, making the operations at these facilities highly significant not only within Italy but also in broader industrial contexts.
Rosignano stands out as the largest chlor-alkali production site in Italy. It is a major domestic producer of chlorine and caustic soda—two fundamental chemicals widely used in manufacturing and industrial processing. The facility employs more than 160 individuals, highlighting its importance as both an economic contributor and an employment hub in the region. Meanwhile, the Tavazzano site focuses on the production of sodium hypochlorite, a compound commonly used for disinfection and water treatment. This smaller facility employs around 25 staff members, yet its output remains essential to public health and sanitation systems.
Although the agreement between INEOS Inovyn and Esseco Industrial has been signed, the transaction is still subject to standard regulatory approvals. Completion is anticipated sometime in 2026. Until the deal is finalized, INEOS Inovyn will continue to oversee and operate both sites as usual. Importantly, there will be no disruption to existing relationships with customers or suppliers during this transitional period, ensuring business continuity and stability.
One notable aspect of the agreement is the treatment of research and development activities currently based at the Rosignano site. These R&D operations will remain under INEOS Inovyn’s control and will be separated—or “carved out”—from the assets being sold. This process will be conducted in accordance with any legal consultation requirements that may apply, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and labor considerations.
Esseco Industrial, the acquiring company, brings significant experience and a strong industrial legacy to the table. As part of the Esseco Group, it represents a fourth-generation family-owned business with over a century of operational history. The group maintains a global presence, operating in 10 countries and managing eight production facilities. Among these are chlor-alkali plants located in Pieve Vergonte and Saline di Volterra, reinforcing its expertise in this sector.
With a workforce of approximately 725 employees and a customer base of around 2,500 clients, Esseco Industrial has established itself as a key player in both organic and inorganic chemical markets. The company is particularly known for its specialization in sulfur-based derivatives and chlor-alkali products. The acquisition of INOVYN Produzione Italia SpA is expected to further strengthen its capabilities and expand its footprint within the European chemical industry.
