German adhesive technologies giant Henkel has completed the acquisition of South Africa-based Nordbak (Pty) Ltd, a specialist provider of maintenance, repair and overhaul solutions with established operations across critical industrial sectors. The strategic acquisition significantly enhances Henkel’s capabilities in serving the petrochemical industry while expanding its growth platform for MRO solutions in emerging markets.
The acquisition positions Henkel to capitalise on the growing demand for high-performance repair and protection technologies in South Africa’s petrochemical sector, alongside mining and infrastructure industries. Nordbak’s comprehensive product portfolio and proven customer base provide immediate access to markets where petrochemical operations require specialised maintenance solutions to ensure operational continuity and safety.
The acquisition aligns with Henkel’s global growth strategy within its Adhesive Technologies business unit, marking a key milestone in the company’s expansion into emerging markets. South Africa represents a strategically important region with robust demand for advanced repair and protection technologies, particularly in petrochemical processing facilities where equipment reliability is paramount.
Henkel’s acquisition strategy focuses on leveraging Nordbak’s established market position, particularly within the mining and petrochemical sectors, by combining international application expertise with complementary technologies and a strong local presence. This approach enables the company to accelerate its footprint in a region where petrochemical infrastructure requires continuous maintenance and protection solutions.
Nordbak’s product portfolio directly addresses critical needs within the petrochemical industry, offering specialised solutions that extend asset life and ensure operational efficiency. The company’s innovative maintenance and repair products include abrasion- and acid-resistant linings essential for petrochemical processing equipment, epoxy-based compounds for structural repairs, metal repair solutions for pipeline and vessel maintenance, and advanced corrosion protection coatings that safeguard petrochemical infrastructure against harsh operating environments.
These solutions, marketed under the NORDBAK® brand, play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of petrochemical facilities, where equipment failure can result in significant operational disruptions and safety concerns. The specialised nature of these products positions Henkel to serve the demanding requirements of petrochemical operations across South Africa and the broader region.
Arash Radgoudarzi, country president of Henkel in South Africa, emphasised the strategic importance of the acquisition, stating that it “marks a new era of growth and innovation for both Henkel and Nordbak.” The executive highlighted how combining international sustainability standards and technological expertise with Nordbak’s customer proximity and industrial insight will deliver added value to customers while contributing to protecting and extending the life of critical infrastructure, including petrochemical facilities across South Africa.
The acquisition reflects Henkel’s long-term commitment to the South African market through investments in local manufacturing capabilities, development of regional technical expertise, and support for industrial resilience through innovation. This commitment extends particularly to the petrochemical sector, where local expertise and rapid response capabilities are essential for maintaining operational continuity.
Nordbak employs approximately 105 people and operates a localised production and service network across South Africa, including strategic sites in Wadeville, Kathu, and Phalaborwa. This geographic distribution provides optimal coverage for serving petrochemical installations and other industrial facilities throughout the region.
Mark Beyl, CEO/MD of Nordbak South Africa, expressed enthusiasm about joining the Henkel organisation, noting that the acquisition allows the company to continue serving customers with excellence while unlocking new innovation capabilities, global reach, and enhanced sustainability focus. This integration is expected to benefit petrochemical operators through access to Henkel’s broader technology portfolio and international best practices.
The acquisition also underscores Henkel’s commitment to aligning operations with international sustainability standards, promoting responsible growth and environmental stewardship across its value chain. This approach is particularly relevant for petrochemical applications, where environmental considerations and operational efficiency are increasingly interconnected.
Through this strategic acquisition, Henkel strengthens its position as a comprehensive solutions provider for the petrochemical industry while expanding its capabilities to serve the growing maintenance and repair needs of critical industrial infrastructure across South Africa and emerging markets.
For more information visit www.henkel.com
