Deal closes after regulatory approvals
Henkel has finalized its acquisition of Stahl, a Dutch specialty coatings company, with the transaction taking effect on October 1, 2026. The closing followed the satisfaction of all conditions, including the regulatory approvals required for the deal. Stahl now operates as a fully integrated part of Henkel. The purchase was first reported in February, when Henkel agreed to buy the company for €2.1 billion from French private equity firm Wendel, along with BASF and Clariant.[S1]
Stahl's global footprint and portfolio
Stahl supplies major brands in mobility, fashion and lifestyle, luxury, and packaging markets worldwide. Its product range covers leather finishing solutions, performance coatings, and packaging coatings designed for specific performance characteristics and improved consumer experience. The company has roughly 1,800 employees around the world and reported adjusted sales of €725 million for fiscal year 2025.[S1]
Leadership frames strategic fit
Henkel CEO Carsten Knobel described the closing as a further step in the company's growth agenda and in reinforcing its Adhesive Technologies business. He said entering specialty coatings opens new growth opportunities and widens the technology portfolio with products in both core and new end markets. Knobel also noted that the Stahl deal, together with ATP Adhesive Systems and Wetherby Laroc, means three transactions have closed this year in the Adhesive Technologies unit, adding about €1 billion in combined sales and creating a base for further profitable growth.[S1]
Mark Dorn, Executive Vice President responsible for Henkel's Adhesive Technologies business unit, said Stahl's asset-light, know-how-based and service-driven model, along with its customization strengths and sustainability focus, makes it a strong strategic fit. He added that combining Stahl's specialty coatings capabilities with Henkel's global adhesives expertise will create a more comprehensive solutions platform, helping customers innovate faster and pursue sustainability goals. Dorn also welcomed Stahl's employees to the Adhesive Technologies team.[S1]
