NEXTCHEM, a subsidiary of MAIRE, has signed a binding agreement to acquire 100% of Ballestra Group. This acquisition significantly expands NEXTCHEM’s intellectual property, technology capabilities, and global footprint in specialty chemicals, sustainable fertilizers, bio-based detergents, fluorine derivatives, and gas-liquid reactor design.
Overview of the Transaction
Under the agreement, NEXTCHEM will acquire the entire share capital of Ballestra Group, which includes Ballestra S.p.A. (Italy), BUSS ChemTech AG (Switzerland), and Ballestra Engineering and Projects Pvt. Ltd. (India). Collectively, the group employs approximately 450 people and operates across more than 120 countries.
The transaction values Ballestra Group at an enterprise value of €108.3 million, resulting in a purchase price of approximately €126.5 million, subject to customary closing adjustments. The closing is expected to take place in the first half of 2026.
Strategic Rationale and Portfolio Expansion
Through this acquisition, Ballestra Group will contribute proprietary technologies, intellectual property, and specialized engineering expertise to NEXTCHEM’s value proposition. In particular, Ballestra brings advanced capabilities in fluorine derivatives used in lithium-ion batteries and applications across the metals and mining industries.
Moreover, as per the press release, the integration will enable cross-selling opportunities with TECNIMONT, MAIRE’s Integrated E&C and Services business unit. Consequently, the combined capabilities will support energy transition initiatives and material transformation projects worldwide.
Financial Outlook
Following the acquisition, NEXTCHEM expects consolidated revenues to reach approximately €235 million in FY 2025. In addition, the year-end backlog is projected to stand at around €315 million, reflecting strong market demand and a solid project pipeline.
Ballestra Group: Global Presence and Innovation Capabilities
Founded in 1960 and headquartered in Milan, Ballestra S.p.A. serves as the holding company of the group. Over the decades, Ballestra has built a strong global reputation in licensing, plant design, and engineering for the chemical industry.
Today, Ballestra Group supports a blue-chip client base with a proven track record of more than 6,400 plants installed worldwide. Furthermore, it continuously strengthens its innovation pipeline through in-house R&D and proprietary pilot plants located in Italy and Switzerland, which function as testing and scale-up hubs for new technologies.
Leadership in Detergents and Oleochemicals
Ballestra has a long-standing heritage in detergents, surfactants, and oleochemicals. It serves both chemical producers and leading fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies through technology licensing, engineering services, and proprietary equipment.
Notably, the group markets its equipment under the well-known Mazzoni brand, with manufacturing and assembly carried out at its facilities in Busto Arsizio, Italy. As a result, Ballestra maintains tight control over quality and technological performance.
Strengthening Fertilizer and Chemical Technologies
In addition to detergents, Ballestra’s chemicals division specializes in advanced processes for sulfuric and phosphoric acid production. These acids are essential inputs for phosphate-based solutions, NPK nutrients, and specialty fertilizers.
By integrating Ballestra’s phosphate-sulphur and potassium-based fertilizer technologies, NEXTCHEM further expands its technology offering. Importantly, this addition complements NEXTCHEM’s existing strengths in nitrogen-based fertilizers, creating a more comprehensive and competitive portfolio.