Stahl Sells Wet-End Leather Chemicals Business to Syntagma Capital

Stahl Sells Wet-End Leather Chemicals Business to Syntagma Capital

Stahl has announced its decision to divest its wet-end leather chemicals business to Syntagma Capital, marking a significant milestone in its transformation journey. This move solidifies Stahl’s shift to becoming a dedicated formulator of specialty coatings for flexible materials, a strategy that aligns with its recent expansion into sustainable packaging coatings.

Stahl’s divestment plan includes the transfer of 428 employees, its entire wet-end portfolio, and manufacturing facilities in Italy and India.

This decision reflects Stahl’s focus on specialty coatings for a broader range of flexible materials while retaining its core strength in leather finishing.

Founded in 1930 as a leather finishing company, Stahl has evolved into a global player with expertise beyond leather.

By offloading its wet-end leather operations, the company aims to enhance its innovative capabilities and sustainability efforts in specialty coatings, catering to modern industry demands.

The leather finishing business will continue to hold a pivotal role in Stahl’s strategy.

Andrea Ceretta, an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience, has been appointed as Stahl Group Director Leather Finishing. Ceretta’s leadership is expected to steer the leather finishing segment toward new growth opportunities.

“The divestment of our wet-end leather chemicals business completes our evolution into a pure-play coatings formulator. This will accelerate our ability to innovate and enhance sustainability, aligning with our purpose: ‘Touching lives, for a better world.’”

Maarten Heijbroek, Stahl’s CEO

Heijbroek also highlighted Stahl’s investments in global expansion, including a new manufacturing facility in Singapore, doubling capacity in China, and establishing new Centers of Excellence in Asia, the US, and Europe.

The divested wet-end leather chemicals business will operate as an independent entity under Syntagma Capital, led by CEO Xavier Rafols. The new company combines decades of expertise with a dynamic, start-up-like agility.

“Our mission is to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions that help our clients face today’s challenges and seize tomorrow’s opportunities. We aim to be more than a solutions provider we’re building partnerships that last.”

Xavier Rafols

The company will uphold values of integrity, excellence, agility, and courage, aiming to drive progress across the leather industry while fostering collaborations throughout the value chain.

The divestment process is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals and consultations with works councils. The transaction is expected to conclude in the first half of 2025.

Other news Bangladesh Tannery Workers Demand Immediate Approval of Tk18001 ($150) Minimum Wage

Like this article? Share it with your network!

Arshad

Arshad

He is an engineer specializing in Leather Technology, known for his keen interest in analyzing global leather, footwear, and leather goods markets & his ability to make complex information clear & accessible. 

Write for Us

Share your stories, experiences, opinions, and analysis in the expert columns of leathernews.org and reach a niche audience and make your voice heard in the global leather, footwear & leather goods industry.

Support Us

We bring you the latest news, insights, and analysis from the global leather, footwear, & leather goods industries

Search Articles

Roll Up Your Sleeves & Join Our Exclusive Newsletter

Get our free weekly newsletter that keeps hundreds of professionals in the global leather, footwear & leather goods industry updated with the latest insights & news.

Recent News

12 Tannery Owners Finalize Plot Allocations in Sialkot Tannery Zone with SCCI President

In a series of productive meetings with Ikram-ul-Haq, the President of the Sialkot Chamber of...

Indian Sneaker Marketplace Startup Culture Circle Secures $2 Million in Seed Funding

Culture Circle, a sneaker-focused ecommerce marketplace platform, has successfully raised $2 million...

Egyptian PM Mostafa Madbouly Visits Robbiki Leather City Highlighting $1 Billion Export Vision

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly recently visited the Robbiki Leather City, underscoring its...

Support Us

We bring you the latest news, insights, and analysis from the global leather, footwear, & leather goods industries