Specialty chemicals firm Hallstar is to acquire the Greensboro, North Carolina ester manufacturing facility of German chemicals distributor Lanxess.

The deal will include the ester manufacturing plant, select product lines and site personnel, and will expand both Hallstar’s manufacturing capacity and product portfolio.

“This strategic acquisition complements Hallstar’s position as a leader in the design, synthesis and manufacturing of specialty ester chemistry,” said the Chicago, Illinois-based company’s CEO, John J Paro.

“We’re glad to see increasing demand for our products but know that our continued success depends on customer’s supply security. The outstanding facility in Greensboro will be a welcome addition to Hallstar’s production capabilities.”

Carmen B Masciantonio, Chief Operating Officer and President of Hallstar Industrial Solutions, added: “This manufacturing capacity expansion directly enables us to increase our polymeric plasticiser business in the US market.

“The site has significant assets that produce environmentally friendly phthalate-free plasticisers including benzoate and citrate esters under the Uniplex brand, as well as other specialty chemistries.”