BASF: The Brightest Star of the Chemical Industry

BASF, the largest chemical producer in the world, is now 153 years old and its timeline had its fair share of bright and dark spots. Chemical industry trends 2019 predict stronger days ahead for this German-based chemical company. But BASF had its fair share of turmoil too which also includes the time when it was under direct control of the French authorities following Germany's defeat in World War 2. However, the dark clouds were soon gone and BASF was refounded in 1952 riding high on the German economic miracle of the 1950s. This blog highlights some of the key milestone events that mark BASF over 150-year journey so far.

The Big Steps
  • Founded on 6 April 1865 in Mannheim (Germany) by Friedrich Engelhorn for production of soda and acids which are key ingredients in the production of dye.
  • Fertilizers were added to the product line in 1913 followed by nylon, polystyrene, and styropor.
  • 80% of the BASF production line in 1901 was dedicated to dye stuff.
  • The 1960s saw BASF spread its wings beyond German boundaries with production plants all continents of the planet and a greater focus on upstream value chain products like on higher-value products such as pharmaceuticals, coatings, pesticides, and fertilizers.

Following decades saw a series of takeovers including the likes of Herbal, Wyandotte Chemical Company, Engelhard, Johnson Polymer, Ciba, Sorex Ltd. Today, BASF commands its strong presence across a variety of markets like Oil & Gas, Chemicals, Plastics, Performance Products, Agricultural Solutions, etc.

The Formula For Success

BASF’s formula for success has been its strategic shift away from consumer product lines and focus on resource efficient product lines. The company reported annual revenue of EUR€64.5 billion for FY 2017. The company is currently valued at US€63.7 billion. It has a 544M authorized capital with 433M paid up capital.

Institutional investors own 75% of BASF shares out of which maximum shares are held in Germany followed by US and UK respectively. In India, the company has invested heavily and has 8 production facilities which include the $100 million crude MDI processing facility complex in Dahej, Gujarat.

BASF is the brightest star on the chemical industry landscape which has grown from strength to strength in its 150-year-old history. It has ardently served multiple business segments while introducing greater efficiency across domestics and international chemical value chains. Chemical suppliers in India can find more about BASF and other giants of the chemical world at Chemarc. The digital marketplace offers well researched and trusted information on the technology and chemical trends of the Industry. 

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