Parx Materials NV, a Rotterdam-based creator and supplier of non-biocidal alternatives to traditional antimicrobial and fouling-prevention methods, has acquired the first machine for its new production set-up in Italy, signalling the start of a new era for Parx Materials. The shift away from dependence on external production capacity toward a fully integrated, circular, and sustainable production process is a tangible consequence of the acquisition about six months ago by GCP Technology AS, a Norwegian technology and industrial company, of nearly 57% of the shares in Parx Materials. Following the acquisition, GCP Technology has implemented several strategic measures to position the company for profitable growth - measures to strengthen Parx Materials’ ability to cater to existing markets but also expand its potential to enter new sectors where its technology can offer substantial value. Parx Materials has hitherto not had the necessary resources to succeed internationally on its own.
“It is important for GCP Technology, as the majority shareholder, to assist with strategic leadership,” said Kjell Wiik, Chairman of GCP Technology AS. “Developing Parx Materials requires both expertise and capital in order to scale the business, streamline processes, and meet customer needs.”
“Our investment in machinery is a clear commitment to our vision of leading the way in sustainable, non-biocidal solutions that contribute to a healthier environment,” added Geir Fuhre Pettersen, chairman of the board of Parx Materials NV. “This is only the beginning. With this new setup, we will be better positioned to control quality, scale production efficiently, and respond swiftly to market needs. Many industries are seeking compliant, long-term alternatives to the use of hazardous substances so that materials and products are clean, safe and easier to recycle or re-purpose.”
Together with its new majority shareholder, Parx Materials NV is now exploring opportunities in sectors such as aquaculture, food packaging, and consumer goods. Already, several large international customers in these market areas have shown interest in the technology, confirming its inherent commercial potential.
GCP Technology wants Parx to further develop the production process located in Italy and has established a good dialogue with local partners who have specialised expertise in this field. GCP Technology has also in the past collaborated with ZincIn AS, Parx Materials’ Norwegian partner, a business it has also since acquired.
Parx Materials and GCP Technology are on the brink of a commercial breakthrough and look forward to further developing the business in 2025. Building and equipping a production facility in Italy is the next step in the journey that aligns with the company’s long-term strategic goals.
Founded in 2012, Parx Materials has developed biocidal solutions to enhance the performance, durability, recyclability, and sustainability of materials used in a wide range of industries. GCP Technology AS is a Norwegian technology and industrial group that has acquired nearly 57% of Parx Materials NV and 100% of ZincIn AS to further develop the technology and the commercial opportunities it enables.