Interview with Dr. Marco Pickel
Marco, how would you describe the market?
Marco: In our core markets — particularly in the DACH region and Central Europe — we do not expect any significant improvement in the economic situation in the short term. Demand for established products remains subdued, which has motivated us to initiate numerous new projects. Looking at Europe as a whole, it is clear that the conditions for the chemical industry are very heterogeneous: while chemical production in Germany grew by only 0.5% according to the CEFIC report published at the beginning of the year, Poland recorded a significant increase of 3.8%.
Dr. Marco Pickel, Managing Director Switzerland AG & Global Sales Director Composites, Construction, Industrial Solutions (CCI)
Which new partners have you gained?
Marco: We have initiated many exciting projects recently. To name just a few new partners: With Ergon, we have gained a multinational partner for high-quality process and base oils. We have expanded our cooperation with our long-standing partner Olin (epoxy resins), particularly in Eastern Europe. Organik Kimya is another important supplier who provides us with dispersion powders and liquid dispersions for the construction industry. In the UK, we have gained BYK, a market leader in rheology additives for the composites and plastics sector, as a partner. What many of our customers don't know is that we offer high-performance private label brands as alternatives to established products. With our NORACETATE product range, for example, we are able to offer acetates for pH regulation in formulations. And with our PARFOAM products, which are part of our range, we offer defoaming solutions for numerous applications.
What are the key market trends in the CCI sector?
Marco: The industry is undergoing profound change, driven by sustainability, modular and serial construction, and functional innovations. The most significant trends include:
Sustainable materials and circular economy
There is growing pressure to reduce CO₂ emissions and promote recycling solutions. Bio-based resins, recyclable composites, and low-emission additives are gaining importance. Many of our suppliers have expanded their range of sustainably produced products in recent years.
Modular and serial construction
Due to the shortage of skilled workers, new construction methods such as 3D printing are coming into focus. These processes require new properties from the raw materials used.
Functionalization of building materials
Materials should not only fulfill structural tasks, but also take on additional functions—such as moisture regulation, thermal insulation, or antimicrobial properties. In the construction industry in particular, sustainability is also defined by durability. Our customers are working on products that are designed to fulfill their function for 30 years or more.
Regional diversification and supply chain resilience
Geopolitical uncertainties and volatile raw material markets are leading to greater regionalization of supply chains and production networks. In this context, we are constantly confronted with logistical challenges. Choosing the right partners with regard to short distances, delivery reliability, and responsible production has become a key task.
Marco, thank you very much for the interview.
Interview with Dr. Marco Pickel
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