Univar Solutions partners exclusively with CABB Group to distribute glycolic acid in EMEA, strengthening specialty ingredient offerings and market growth.
Univar Solutions has broadened its specialty ingredient offerings in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region through a new exclusive distribution agreement focused on glycolic acid. The agreement has been signed between Univar Solutions B.V., a subsidiary of Univar Solutions LLC, and CABB Group, a recognized provider of contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) services and high-purity fine chemicals. The collaboration will be managed through Univar’s Ingredients + Specialties division and will target select EMEA markets.
Under this strategic partnership, Univar Solutions will exclusively distribute glycolic acid products manufactured by CABB Group for use across beauty and personal care, home care, and industrial cleaning segments. CABB Group is known for its expertise in customized active ingredients and high-purity chemical solutions serving life sciences, crop science, personal care, and other specialty applications. By combining CABB’s manufacturing excellence with Univar’s market reach and formulation expertise, the companies aim to strengthen product availability and drive innovation across multiple end-use industries.
Nick Powell, CEO of Ingredients + Specialties at Univar Solutions, emphasized that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to performance, efficacy, and value creation. He noted that the alliance will enable the delivery of high-quality, innovative ingredients designed to address the rising demand for multifunctional consumer products in EMEA. According to Powell, the addition of glycolic acid solutions enhances the company’s ability to support customers seeking differentiated formulations that meet evolving consumer expectations.
Glycolic acid is widely used in cosmetic and dermatological formulations due to its proven exfoliating and skin-renewing properties. It plays a significant role in promoting smoother skin texture, improving moisture retention, and supporting overall skin rejuvenation. Beyond personal care, glycolic acid is also valued in home care and industrial cleaning applications because of its low toxicity, non-flammable nature, and VOC-free characteristics. These properties make it a versatile and environmentally favorable option for a variety of technical uses.
The portfolio available under this agreement includes branded grades such as GLYCOS® Clear 70 and GLYTECH® Basic 70. These solutions are formulated to meet performance standards across both consumer and technical applications, providing customers with flexible formulation options.
James Peterson, Global Vice President of CARE at Univar Solutions, stated that the partnership reinforces the company’s dedication to reliable supply, technical support, and high-performance ingredient solutions. He highlighted that glycolic acid’s efficiency and versatility are expected to further increase its popularity in modern skincare routines and advanced cleaning formulations.
Tobias Schalow, CEO of CABB Group, described Univar Solutions as an ideal distribution partner due to its extensive regional network, technical capabilities, and customer-focused approach. He added that the exclusive agreement is expected to accelerate the growth of glycolic acid in the EMEA market. With over four decades of expertise in glycolic acid production, CABB Group continues to prioritize product quality, consistency, and safety.
The inclusion of glycolic acid in Univar Solutions’ Ingredients + Specialties portfolio aligns with the company’s broader strategy to invest in high-growth sectors and enhance its specialty ingredient offerings. By expanding access to high-performance raw materials, Univar aims to empower formulators and manufacturers to create innovative, competitive, and value-driven products across EMEA.
