Chemical
Sudarshan Chemical sells VP4 Frankfurt to Celanese to double down on pigments
VP4 Frankfurt, which became part of Sudarshan following its acquisition of the Heubach Group, manufactures specialty intermediates including Diketene
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By ICN Bureau | September 01, 2026
Sudarshan Chemical Industries has sold its step-down subsidiary VP4 Frankfurt GmbH to US-based Celanese Corporation, sharpening its strategic focus on its core pigments and colorants business.
VP4 Frankfurt, which became part of Sudarshan following its acquisition of the Heubach Group, manufactures specialty intermediates including Diketene. The Frankfurt-based operation primarily functions as a tolling operator for Nutrinova, an affiliate of Celanese Corporation and Mitsui & Co. Japan.
The divestment brings the business closer to its principal customer. Nutrinova accounts for the bulk of VP4 Frankfurt’s output, while only a small portion is supplied to Sudarshan for captive consumption.
Diketene is an important intermediate used in the production of functional food ingredients. The asset therefore has a stronger strategic fit within Celanese and Nutrinova, which produces food-industry additives including sweeteners.
Following completion of the transaction, Nutrinova will continue supplying Sudarshan with the materials it needs.
"The sale of VP4 Frankfurt is a strategic step in sharpening our focus. Pigments and colorants are where we create the most value for our customers. VP4 is a well-run business with a strong team, and it now moves to the company it already serves. That is the right outcome for the asset, for its employees, and for Sudarshan," said Rajesh Rathi, Chairman & Managing Director, Sudarshan Chemical Industries Limited.
The divestment is part of Sudarshan’s broader effort to concentrate resources and operations around its global pigments and color solutions portfolio.
