Respol Group, a reference in production and trading of rosin derivatives, has concluded today the acquisition, to the Finnish private equity fund MB Funds, of the Finnish group Forchem Oy, a reference company at European level in production of derivatives of crude tall oil with presence, beyond Finland, in the most relevant markets across Europe, such as Germany, France and the United Kingdom.

By acquiring Forchem, Respol Group - with a 40-year history in the rosin sector and which has construed a position of reference in the international market of rosin derivatives since 1993 - takes a decisive step on its strategy for global internationalization, through a vertical integration procedure which will result in the emergence of a worldwide reference player, also contributing to the consolidation of the sector.

This same idea was transmitted by the chairman and controlling shareholder of Respol Group, Manuel B. Costa, who highlighted, among other benefits inherent to the acquisition of Forchem, the creation of an international group and the synergies resulting from the integration of the two businesses which enable Respol Group to meet its client’s expectations in an increasingly demanding market. Manuel B. Costa further underlined the relevance of the presence of one more Portuguese company on international markets in the areas of adhesives and hot melts, printing inks, coatings, cosmetics, rubber and paper industry as well as raw materials for different applications, through a strong presence in Finland, country with a singular tradition in this sector.

MB Funds, on its turn, referred to be pleased that with Respol Group, Forchem has now an owner with industrial logic in an arrangement that can further develop Forchem´s operations in the future.

Financial and legal advisory to Respol Group on the transaction was coordinated by KPMG Portugal and Uría Menéndez - Proença de Carvalho, respectively. The legal advisor of MB Funds was Bird & Bird.

Helsinki, 30 September 2013