Ecolab to expand

Ecolab has announced it has agreed to purchase the Cleantec business from Campbell Brothers. The transaction is an asset purchase and is subject to clearance from the Australian anti-trust authorities and other customary closing conditions.

Cleantec is a developer, manufacturer and marketer of cleaning and hygiene products principally within the Australian food and beverage processing, food service, hospitality and textile care markets. Sales of the business to be acquired are about US$55 million and the completion of the transaction is expected to occur upon receipt of regulatory clearance.

Douglas M Baker, Jr, Ecolab's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented on the announcement saying, "Australia is a strong and stable market for Ecolab, and this acquisition complements our existing Australian business very well. It will expand our customer base, improve our positions in our food and beverage processing, food service, hospitality and textile care businesses, and create opportunities to offer our water care and pest elimination services to additional customers."