Interviews with Univar Solutions and with Helm de Mexico
Jorge Buckup, President Latin America
UNIVAR SOLUTIONS
How has the transition to private ownership benefited Univar Solutions?
Apollo Funds, a private equity fund, acquired Univar Solutions in 2023. This acquisition has been incredibly beneficial. Operating as a private company with the support of a private equity fund like Apollo opens up more possibilities for us, including better resource allocation — whether in people, training, development, new capital investments, or acquisitions. As a private company, M&A is crucial for growth, particularly in Latin America, where we constantly explore opportunities and have conversations to identify the best choices for our markets.
Can you provide details on how Univar Solutions’ approach to nearshoring benefits its operations?
We have noted that our clients have increased their investments in Mexico, leading to a surge in demand for our product and suppliers. We are closely monitoring these investments to support this uptick and growth plans.
On a broader scale, we are applying similar strategies throughout Latin America. By thinking outside the box, we collaborate more with colleagues across Latin America to increase efficiency and service consistency for global clients.
What role does sustainability play in Univar Solutions’ overall strategy and company values?
We have set specific goals to shape our future; for example, in 2023, we have reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 19.9% from our baseline. For the first time, we have established Scope 3 targets to reduce emissions intensity by 15% by 2030, aiming to reach net zero across all scopes by 2050.
What will be Univar Solutions’ priorities for 2024?
Our priority for this year and next is to continue growing. This means hitting our target with our supplier partners, expanding our market share, and increasing sales volume profitably. We plan to achieve this by managing our resources wisely, optimizing cash flow, and making strategic investments with discipline while simplifying our operations.
N. Adriana Ramírez Millán, Chemical Sales Director
HELM DE MÉXICO
In which specific products or areas has Helm experienced the most growth in Mexico in recent months?
In terms of products, acetone remains fundamental to us. Additionally, we have successfully introduced caustic soda, leveraging our logistics capability and relationships with shipping companies to meet market demand. Styrene and glycol are also key products.
What opportunities for expansion are you considering, and in which areas are you focusing for the future, especially regarding nearshoring in Mexico?
We rely on our long-term solid client relationships and established network to capitalize on nearshoring opportunities. While we do not establish physical facilities near factories, our network ensures that our clients and their needs are always connected. This diversification enables us to offer our clients innovative solutions and comprehensive support.
As a family-owned company, does Helm prefer to grow through acquisitions of smaller local companies or seek more organic growth?
So far, we have mainly focused on organic growth, but at the same time we have been to exploring investment opportunities. We are willing to consider acquisitions that complement our strategy, especially those that drive sustainable initiatives, such as producing eco-friendly products. We are adapting to market dynamics and evaluating how we can expand strategically.
What can we expect from Helm de México for the next year, and what are the company’s objectives?
For the next year, our focus is to strengthen our relationships with suppliers and customers in terms of business and our commitment to the environment and social responsibility. While economic benefit is crucial, we also care about positively impacting the community and the environment. We aim to actively collaborate with our employees, customers, and suppliers to ensure our business practices are sustainable and ethical. We are open to synergies that benefit all parties involved, including competitors, in pursuit of achieving shared positive outcomes.