What is the Current Ownership Status of Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI)?
Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) no longer exists as an independent entity; its operations were acquired in 2008 primarily by AkzoNobel, which then integrated the majority of ICI's remaining businesses and sold specific parts to Henkel.
The Acquisition and Dissolution of ICI
ICI, once a globally recognized British chemical company, underwent a significant transformation in its corporate structure that ultimately led to its cessation as a standalone company.
In 2008, the Dutch multinational company AkzoNobel completed the acquisition of Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI). This acquisition was a defining moment, as it dissolved ICI as an independent operating entity. The strategy post-acquisition involved a two-pronged approach:
- Strategic Divestment: Immediately following the acquisition, AkzoNobel sold specific business segments and parts of ICI's operations to Henkel. Henkel, a German multinational, integrated these acquired components to strengthen its own diverse portfolio, which includes consumer brands and industrial technologies.
- Integration into Existing Operations: The substantial core operations and remaining businesses of ICI were seamlessly integrated into AkzoNobel's existing organizational framework. This means that various brands, technologies, and manufacturing facilities previously owned by ICI now function under the AkzoNobel umbrella.
Therefore, when asking "Who owns ICI?", the answer points not to a current owner of an independent ICI, but rather to the companies that absorbed its legacy and assets. ICI as a distinct corporate entity ceased to exist after its acquisition and subsequent distribution of its operations.
Key Companies in ICI's Post-Acquisition Landscape
| Entity | Role in ICI's Ownership Transition |
|---|---|
| AkzoNobel | Acquired ICI in 2008 and integrated the majority of its operations. |
| Henkel | Purchased specific parts and businesses from ICI post-acquisition. |
For further details on these companies, you can visit their official websites: AkzoNobel and Henkel.
