Univar signs new distribution agreement with OXEA for next-generation coalescing agent

ROTTERDAM, The Netherlands – June 25, 2012 – Univar Inc., a leading global chemical distributor announced today it has signed an agreement with OXEA to distribute its OXFILM 351 coalescing agent in Benelux, France, Italy, Spain, and the Nordic region.

OXFILM 351 is a low odor, near-zero-VOC coalescing agent with a plasticizer effect. It has a VOC content of less than 0.5 percent, and at the same time is 10-20 percent more efficient in reducing the minimum film forming temperature than comparable products.

“OXFILM 351 is a promising product for us and we see significant potential for it in these territories,” says Jacco de Haas, global marketing manager, Specialty Esters at OXEA. “Univar is the right partner for growing this product next to our existing sales channels. Univar has an impressive coatings business in these countries and really understands the local markets. Being able to introduce OXFILM 351 to an existing customer base also made them an attractive partner for us.”

“Univar is always looking to bring the most innovative new products to its customers and increasing the proportion of green, low-VOC, and sustainable solutions in our product portfolio is an important part of that,” says Marc Démoulin, industry director coatings and adhesives EMEA, Univar. “OXFILM 351 is a great addition to our already well advanced portfolio of next generation chemicals, and we expect it to be well received by our customers.”

OXEA has developed this product for use in next-generation indoor coatings, anticipating demand for high-performance products that will be able to meet increasingly stringent regulation on VOCs.