What strategic goals are you pursuing with this integration?
Michael Weiden: GNMI wants to expand its global footprint and establish a direct presence in all major markets – with its own teams in the local language and culture. Susonity, formerly Merck Surface Solutions, brings a leading position in effect pigments, particularly in the paints and coatings segment, but also in cosmetics. The acquisition is complementary in every respect, with little overlap in products and organisation.
How important is the German site in Gernsheim for the further development of Susonity?
Weiden: Germany remains the centre for research and application technology. The laboratories have relocated from the Merck site to the Höchst Industrial Park – with significantly more space and noticeable investments in new equipment, such as spray booths and extruders.
How do you rate Europe’s role in comparison to Asia and North America for your activities?
Weiden: The European region is currently still our largest market, but is not seen as a growth driver. We expect the strongest growth to come from the Asian region. Growth in North America is also slightly stronger than in Europe. Asia is likely to overtake Europe within five years.
Sustainability is a key issue. Where do you see the greatest opportunities?
Weiden: There is a lack of clear definitions of what exactly sustainable pigment solutions mean. We rely on traceable raw material sources, for example mica from controlled mines or titanium from verified sources. We are expanding our electricity supply through solar power, among other things, and benefit from green electricity in our group’s production in China. At the same time, however, price often remains the decisive criterion on the market.
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