29 Oct 2014

Clariant divests its Energy Storage Business to Johnson Matthey

Divestment of Clariant's Business Line Energy Storage part of on-going portfolio management strategy
Total consideration of USD 75 million

Muttenz, October 29, 2014 - Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, has agreed to divest its Business Line Energy Storage to Johnson Matthey Plc. The total consideration of the sale amounts to USD 75 million at closing which is expected early 2015.

The Energy Storage business of Clariant is the largest hydrothermal Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) producer in the world. The lithium ion cathode material is used in electric vehicles and stationary battery applications. In 2013 the Energy Storage business generated around CHF 16 million in sales. The business employs around 100 employees predominantly in Canada and Germany.

“The divestment of the Energy Storage business with its LFP technology is part of our focused portfolio management and reallocating capital towards our core areas Care Chemicals, Catalysis and Energy, Natural Resources, and Plastics and Coatings,” said Hariolf Kottmann, CEO of Clariant.

Robert MacLeod, Chief Executive of Johnson Matthey said: “This acquisition provides us with a strong position in LFP from which to develop a broad portfolio of battery materials. It further strengthens our battery technologies capability which marks an important step in Johnson Matthey’s long term strategy to establish new business areas.”

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Notes for editors

www.clariant.com

Clariant is a globally leading specialty chemicals company, based in Muttenz near Basel/Switzerland. On December 31, 2013 the company employed a total workforce of 18,099. In the financial year 2013, Clariant recorded sales of CHF 6.076 billion for its continuing businesses. The company reports in four business areas: Care Chemicals, Catalysis & Energy, Natural Resources, and Plastics & Coatings. Clariant’s corporate strategy is based on five pillars: increase profitability, reposition portfolio, add value with sustainability, foster innovation and R&D, and intensify growth.

www.matthey.com

Johnson Matthey is a global speciality chemicals company underpinned by science, technology and its people. A leader in sustainable technologies, many of the group’s products enhance the quality of life of millions through their beneficial impact on the environment, human health and wellbeing. The group focuses on clean air, clean energy and low carbon technologies and is an expert in the application and recycling of precious metals. Johnson Matthey has operations in over 30 countries and employs around 12,000 people. Its products and services are sold across the world to a wide range of advanced technology industries.