BATF Group and UK-based Synthomer have signed a strategic partnership agreement to strengthen their presence in the global speciality coatings market, with plans to establish a joint venture (JV) in China focused on advanced coating materials.
The proposed joint venture will concentrate on the research and development, production and sale of coalescing agents and high-performance polyester resins for powder coatings, bringing together Synthomer’s advanced materials technology and application expertise with BATF’s manufacturing capabilities, supply chain network and operational strength.
Under the agreement, Synthomer will license its polyester resin technology and know-how to the JV Company and acquire a minority stake in the venture. The deal remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval in China.
The partnership is designed to strengthen both companies’ global customer reach while accelerating the development and supply of speciality chemical solutions. The companies will collaborate across technology, manufacturing, market development and operations, with a focus on building a platform for long-term growth.
The move comes as the global coatings industry accelerates its shift towards water-based and low-VOC technologies. Coalescing agents and high-performance polyester resins play a critical role in coating performance, influencing film formation, mechanical strength, durability and environmental characteristics.
For BATF, the agreement marks another step in its transformation from a traditional product supplier into a global, customer-focused solutions provider. It also signals the growing ambitions of Chinese speciality chemical manufacturers to move further up the global value chain.
For Synthomer, the partnership offers a route to expand its specialty coatings technology in China, one of the world's largest and fastest-growing coatings markets, while bringing its innovations closer to regional customers and market needs.
Gong Yanglong, Chief Executive Officer of BATF Group commented: “Our strategic cooperation with Synthomer marks an important step in BATF’s commitment to open collaboration and global expansion. BATF brings strong manufacturing capabilities, an extensive supply chain network and operational excellence, while Synthomer contributes its technological expertise and global experience. Together, we aim to develop the JV Company into a specialty coatings platform serving customers worldwide.”
Michael Willome, Chief Executive Officer of Synthomer, commented: “Our partnership with BATF will represent a significant milestone in Synthomer's strategy to expand its presence in high-growth specialty coatings markets and in China, a key region for exponential growth.
"BATF's local market knowledge and impressive manufacturing capabilities in China mean they will be a great partner, supporting both the Asian growth and innovation agendas of our Coatings & Construction Solutions business. It is a strategically aligned and capital-disciplined opportunity to create long-term value for all our stakeholders and we look forward to working with BATF.”
