Global New Material International Completes Acquisition from Merck

Deal News | Aug 01, 2025 | PR Newswire Cision Global New Material International Holdings Limited

Global New Material International Holdings Limited (GNMI), a leading manufacturer of pearlescent pigments, has completed the acquisition of Merck's Surface-Solutions business for €665 million. This strategic acquisition elevates GNMI to a prominent position in the global high-performance surface materials market. The acquired business, continuing under the brand name SUSONITY, enhances GNMI's geographic reach and sales channels across key markets. The deal includes production facilities in Germany, Japan, and the USA, which will serve as regional centers for GNMI’s expanded operations. With approximately 1,100 former Merck employees joining GNMI, the company ensures job security in Germany until 2032. Merck's divestment focuses its portfolio on technology-oriented sectors, aligning with its strategy for sustainable growth through innovation. GNMI's expansion plan emphasizes synergy and operational efficiency, anticipating growth through enhanced market and product offerings.

Sectors

  • Chemical Manufacturing
  • Cosmetics
  • Automotive

Geography

  • Germany – The Surface-Solutions business includes a significant operation in Gernsheim, Germany.
  • China – GNMI is headquartered in Guangxi, China, and the acquisition represents a significant cross-border transaction for the country.
  • United States – The U.S. is home to one of the acquired production facilities in Savannah, Georgia.
  • Japan – One of the acquired facilities is in Onahama, Japan, which extends GNMI's reach in Asia.

Industry

  • Chemical Manufacturing – GNMI is a leading manufacturer of pearlescent pigments, which is a part of the chemical manufacturing sector.
  • Cosmetics – The acquisition enhances GNMI's position in the cosmetics industry, where pearlescent pigments are widely used.
  • Automotive – The transaction strengthens GNMI's offerings in the automotive sector through specialized solutions for coatings.

Financials

  • 665 million Euro – Deal price for the acquisition of Merck's Surface-Solutions business by GNMI.
  • 4,776 million RMB – GNMI's net sales in 2024, equivalent to approximately 615 million Euro.
  • 21.2 billion Euro – Merck's revenue in 2024, illustrating the company's scale.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
Global New Material International Holdings LimitedAcquirer/BuyerCompanyGNMI is the acquirer of Merck's Surface-Solutions business and is a leading manufacturer of pearlescent pigments.
Merck GroupSellerCompanyMerck sold its Surface-Solutions business to GNMI and is a major player in the life sciences, healthcare, and electronics industries.
Ertian SuChairman of GNMIPersonErtian Su is the chairman of GNMI and has commented on the strategic significance of the acquisition.
Belén GarijoCEO of MerckPersonBelén Garijo is the CEO of Merck and spoke about the transaction aligning with Merck's strategic focus on technology-driven sectors.
Kai BeckmannCEO Electronics at MerckPersonKai Beckmann is a Merck board member focusing on electronics, providing context for Merck's strategy post-sale.