Industry News

“We are confident this acquisition strengthens our position as a top-tier specialty chemicals company and establishes a powerful combined platform with significant opportunities for organic growth. We are committed to the successful integration of Solutia and look forward to delivering the projected growth and synergies from this combination,” said Jim Rogers, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Eastman.

The acquisition provides a good strategic fit with Angel Springs’ existing operation in Dorset, which is situated next door to Isis Office Hydration’s depot. It will also give Angel Springs an established presence in the important Central London market, a region which was previously serviced from Angel Springs’ Chiltern distribution centre in Hertfordshire.

Nestle and Danone, both leading companies in the food and beverage sector, increased  volume growth of  their water divisions and reported progress with regard to environmental initiatives.  Nestlé Water's European business gained share  and Danone's water division posted record increase in sales in the fourth quarter of 2011.

Greif Inc., a global leader in industrial packaging products and services, announced results for its first quarter. David B. Fischer, president and chief executive officer, said, “We remain focused on integrating acquisitions and implementing plans to increase cash flow during 2012.”

The merger of the two companies is expected to be completed by autumn 2012. The move will improve Eden’s efficiency in Spain since both companies already share suppliers and have warehouses in neighbouring areas. It will also enable the company to increase its revenue in the country by nearly €2m.

Main company’s highlights are the admission on the London Stock Exchange AIM market; new distributors in Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Mexico; its innovative Firewall™ UV technology and its further expansion into new markets; Acquisition of InnoTech and Aqua Cure businesses and cooler portfolio in France during 2011; Machines in field increased by 65,000 to 565,000 and a strong net cash position allowing the Company to pursue acquisition opportunities.

Highland Spring —the company that offers natural mineral water from the Ochil Hills of Scotland— acquired a bottled water plant from Moray Council. The plant will be used to bottle the Speyside Glenlivet brand.

Greiner Packaging International increases its European distribution network.

Dr. Ulrich August Kreuter, a member of Watercoolers Europe Education & Audit Committee, has been appointed NSF Technical Manager. Dr Kreuter will supervise all technical aspects of NSF International's bottled water and beverage certification operations in the EMEA region. The position also involves managing all of the testing and certification, auditing and training services.

Ukrainian bottled mineral and drinking water companies, including IDS Group Ukraine and Coca Cola Ukraine, recently announced their decision to form the Association of Mineral and Drinking Water Manufacturers of Ukraine.