Henkel has acquired the South Africa-based Nordbak (Pty) Ltd (“Nordbak”), a specialist provider of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) solutions with a strong foothold in mining, infrastructure, and industrial segments. With a broad product portfolio, a proven customer base, and deep application know-how, Nordbak significantly strengthens Henkel’s MRO offering in a strategically important and fast-growing regional market.
The acquisition aligns with Henkel’s global growth strategy in the Adhesive Technologies business unit and reflects a key milestone in expanding its footprint in emerging markets. It enables the company to accelerate its presence in South Africa – a region with strong demand for high-performance repair and protection technologies in critical industries.
Henkel aims to leverage Nordbak’s established position in the South African MRO market – particularly within the mining sector – by combining application expertise, complementary technologies, and a strong local presence.
“This acquisition marks a new era of growth and innovation for both Henkel and Nordbak,” said Arash Radgoudarzi, Country President of Henkel in South Africa. “It is a strong strategic fit to our global MRO platform. By combining international sustainability standards and technological expertise with Nordbak’s customer proximity and industrial insight, we will deliver added value to our customers and contribute to protecting and extending the life of critical infrastructure across South Africa.”
The acquisition also underscores Henkel’s long-term commitment to the South African market by investing in local manufacturing capabilities, developing regional technical expertise, and supporting industrial resilience through innovation. As part of this commitment, Henkel will also work toward aligning operations with international sustainability standards, promoting responsible growth and environmental stewardship across its value chain.
Nordbak employs around 105 people and operates a localized production and service network across South Africa, including sites in Wadeville, Kathu and Phalaborwa. The company offers innovative maintenance and repair products including abrasion- and acid-resistant linings, epoxy-based crusher backing, metal repair and grouting compounds, and corrosion protection coatings. These solutions, marketed under the NORDBAK® brand, play a key role in extending asset life and ensuring operational efficiency in industries such as mining, petrochemical, and mineral processing in South Africa.
“Joining the Henkel family marks an exciting new chapter for Nordbak,” said Mark Beyl, CEO/Managing Director of Nordbak South Africa. “We are proud of our legacy in South Africa’s MRO industry. This acquisition allows us to continue serving our customers with excellence, while unlocking new innovation capabilities, global reach, and a strong focus on sustainability.”
The transaction is closed and completed. The companies agreed not to disclose financial details of the transaction.
Source: chemweek.com
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