Kingswood Capital Management has acquired Daramic, the global leader in lead battery separators, from Japanese chemical giant Asahi Kasei. 

 

As part of the deal, Chad Schuchmann, current CEO of Polypore, Asahi Kasei’s microporous membrane and battery separator division, will take the helm at Daramic.

 

Founded more than 90 years ago, Daramic produces high-performance polyethylene battery separators used in automobiles, recreational vehicles, and heavy machinery. The company operates offices, facilities, and Centers of Innovation across North America, Europe, and Asia, delivering fast service, supply continuity, and advanced separator technology expertise.

 

“I’m honored to take on the role of CEO at such a pivotal moment for Daramic and lead the company into its next chapter of growth, and Kingswood is the right partner to help us get there,” Schuchmann said. “I’m looking forward to working with the entire Kingswood team as we evolve the business, continue to deliver for our customers, and remain a trusted leader in lead battery separator technology for our partners all over the world.”

 

Andrew Kovach, Managing Director at Kingswood, highlighted the company’s growth potential. “We have been impressed with Daramic’s market position and global reach, which make it well-positioned for growth and long-term value creation for customers, partners, and stakeholders,” he said. 

 

“We are excited to support Daramic as it builds on its long-standing track record of innovation and continues to set the standard for excellence in the battery separator industry.”

 

Alex Wolf, Founder and Managing Partner at Kingswood, added, “We are proud to welcome Daramic into the Kingswood family. Daramic has a legacy of leadership and expertise in manufacturing battery separators across the world going back nearly 100 years. We look forward to working with Chad and the team, leveraging our deep operational expertise and global network to help the company in its next stage of growth.”

 

The acquisition strengthens Kingswood’s footprint in complex global markets and the automotive aftermarket. 

 

Over the past two years, the firm has also acquired Kodak Alaris, a UK-based technology company, and Infotree, a provider of international workforce management solutions for Fortune 500 companies. Kingswood’s 2022 investment in Turbo Wholesale Tires further expanded its presence in automotive supply.