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Global geosynthetics manufacturer Solmax has concluded the acquisition of TenCate Geosynthetics. With this transaction, the global reach, innovation capabilities and specialties of two recognized geosynthetics frontrunners combine to create the world’s leading geosynthetics provider.
“Solmax is already the global leader in the development, manufacture and provision of high-quality polyethylene geomembranes for containment in industrial and environmental applications. Now, with the addition of TenCate’s geosynthetics, industrial fabrics and manufacturing plants, we have unmatched breadth of scope, scale and reach,” says Jean-Louis Vangeluwe, president of Solmax. “Together, we create a better, stronger, faster Solmax—positioning ourselves well to accelerate our vision of driving higher standards, stimulating innovation and leading the geosynthetics industry forward.”
With the acquisition of TenCate Geosynthetics, Solmax’s geosynthetics products will fully meet the needs of both containment and infrastructure applications. In addition, the two companies’ combined expertise across all geosynthetic categories makes Solmax an innovation powerhouse. “There is no geosynthetic solution we cannot deliver,” says Vangeluwe, “and that’s good for the environment, and great for industry, people and progress.”
Solmax’s containment solutions are used by major industrial companies in the mining, energy, waste management, water and civil engineering sectors, while TenCate Geosynthetics’ infrastructure solutions and systems are used in transportation, building sites, water management, natural resources and environmental market applications. With a combined 19 production locations around the world, these products will now be sold in more than 100 countries.
“It’s an ideal match,” says Wally Moore, CEO of TenCate Geosynthetics. “TenCate Geosynthetics and Solmax are both market leaders with longstanding industry relationships. We are known and trusted for our market presence, application knowledge, quality products and service excellence, and recognized as the most innovative companies in our respective spaces. Our vision around sustainability also aligns well. We are pleased to be joining with Solmax to extend the value we can offer to our clients.”
This transaction combines the companies’ reach into different segments. It’s a game-changer, says Vangeluwe, that will extend use of both companies’ standard and specialized engineered solutions in civil engineering, road infrastructure, and hydraulic and environmental works, as well as strengthen the positioning and promote the adoption of geosynthetics in the construction sector.
“I am delighted to welcome TenCate Geosynthetics to Solmax,” says Jacques Côté, founder and executive chairman of the board of Solmax. “Our vision is ambitious. Solmax aims to reshape the industry, leading change by bringing to market innovative products that are more reliable, stronger and affordable, even in developing countries. And TenCate’s contribution is significant.
“Together, our products, services and people will create a stronger global company, one that we believe is even better positioned to make a formidable and lasting contribution to advancing the geosynthetics industry, supporting human progress and protecting the planet.”
Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ) and Fonds de solidarité FTQ, Solmax’s long-term financial partners, have both invested in this transaction.