Top Suppliers and Manufacturers of Oleochemicals in the United States 🇺🇸

Oleochemicals, derived primarily through the chemical modification of fats and oils, play an integral role in numerous industries, including personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food production. Notably, the United States stands as a major hub for oleochemical suppliers, driven by a combination of cutting-edge technology and abundant natural resources. Leading companies in the U.S. oleochemical market offer a diverse range of products, from fatty acids and glycerol to specialized compounds used in various applications. These suppliers are known for their commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation, making the U.S a key player in the global oleochemical landscape.

Emery Oleochemicals

Year Founded
1840
NA
Number of Employees
491
NA
Revenue
NA

Emery Oleochemicals is a prominent name in the oleochemical industry, specializing in the production of commodity and specialty chemicals derived from natural oils and fats. With a remarkable history dating back to 1840, the company was founded by Thomas Emery Sr., beginning with the innovative conversion of discarded lard into candles and lamp oil. Emery Oleochemicals has grown and diversified its offerings, now providing high-quality products such as fatty acids, glycerin, and derivatives primarily used in personal care, food, plastics, and industrial applications.

Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, and operating major facilities in Loxstedt, Germany, the company commands a strong global presence. Emery serves a wide range of export markets across Asia, Europe, and North America, reflecting its commitment to delivering sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. The company is organized into six business units: Agro Green, Bio-Lubricants, Eco-Friendly Polyols, Green Polymer Additives, Home and Personal Wellness, and OleoBasics, allowing them to cater to various industry needs effectively.

Emery Oleochemicals operates as a joint venture with equal stakes held by PTT Global Chemical of Thailand and Sime Darby Plantation of Malaysia, strengthening its reach in multiple regions. The company prides itself on its core values of Competitive Advantage, Innovation, Trust, and Partnership, utilizing pioneering technology and in-depth market insights to customize their product offerings. This dedication to innovation and sustainability has made Emery a key player in the oleochemical sector, recognized for its eco-friendly polyols, lubricant base stocks and additives, and natural-based agrochemical solutions.

With technical development centers located within its production facilities, Emery Oleochemicals continues to advance research and product development, ensuring they meet specific customer needs while promoting sustainability across all operations.

Cargill, Incorporated

Year Founded
1865
NA
Number of Employees
155000
NA
Revenue
165000000000
NA

Cargill, Incorporated is a global leader in the food and agriculture industries, renowned for its extensive range of products and services. The company is involved in the production and distribution of a variety of agricultural commodities and food ingredients, including oleochemicals. These chemicals, derived from natural oils and fats, are pivotal in the formulation of soaps, detergents, and personal care products.

Established in 1865, Cargill has a rich history that spans over 150 years. Founded by William Wallace Cargill in Iowa, the company has grown from a single grain storage facility into one of the largest privately-held corporations in the United States. Headquartered in Wayzata, Minnesota, the company operates over 1,500 facilities in 66 countries globally.

A few of Cargill's top products include grains, oilseeds, animal feed, and food ingredients such as cocoa and chocolate, meat, poultry, and edible oils. The company also has a significant presence in the biofuels market, enhancing its portfolio's diversity. Their oleochemicals division supports the production of sustainable agricultural products, leveraging naturally sourced raw materials to produce environmentally-friendly substitutes for petroleum-based products.

With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, Cargill serves a broad range of export markets across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Cargill's effective global supply chain management ensures that they meet the demands of over 125 countries worldwide.

As of 2022, Cargill reported revenues of $165 billion, highlighting its significant economic impact. The company employs approximately 155,000 people globally, indicating its decentralized and diversified operational footprint. Cargill continues to be a driving force in shaping the global food and agricultural landscape, with a persistent focus on sustainable and responsible business practices.

Vantage Specialty Chemicals

Year Founded
2008
NA
Number of Employees
686
NA
Revenue
NA

Vantage Specialty Chemicals is a renowned supplier in the chemical manufacturing industry, with a strong emphasis on oleochemicals and other specialty chemical products. The company’s head office is located in Deerfield, Illinois, and it plays a significant role in various export markets including Brazil and Mexico.

Vantage offers an extensive range of top-quality products such as oleochemicals, surfactants, emulsifiers, and other specialty ingredients that are essential in numerous applications. Its product lineup caters to high-growth sectors like personal care, food, life sciences, and industrial specialties, reflecting its versatility and expertise.

Founded in 2008 through the acquisition of Uniqema's U.S. operations by H.I.G. Capital, Vantage has grown rapidly via strategic acquisitions. Noteworthy expansions include the acquisitions of Lambent Technologies, Lipo Chemicals, and Mallet & Co., which have bolstered its Performance Materials, Personal Care, and Foods units respectively.

With a robust presence in North America and an operational footprint in markets such as Colombia, South Africa, Germany, Argentina, Mexico, and Chile, Vantage effectively serves a diverse range of clients globally. Its adept use of vertical integration and agile supply chain mechanisms allow the company to offer innovative, customized formulations and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

The company is committed to sustainability and continuous improvement, strictly adhering to environmental safety standards. This focus on sustainable practices, coupled with a keen customer-centric approach, positions Vantage as a trusted partner in addressing market needs. With approximately 686 employees, Vantage leverages its technical expertise to ensure high product quality and operational efficiency, enabling a differentiated experience for its global clientele.

BASF SE

Year Founded
1865
NA
Number of Employees
112000
NA
Revenue
68900000000
NA

BASF SE is a leading global chemical company headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany. Founded in 1865, BASF has grown to become the largest chemical producer worldwide, combining economic success with a strong commitment to environmental protection and social responsibility. The company operates in various sectors, including chemicals, materials, industrial solutions, surface technologies, nutrition & care, and agricultural solutions.

The company provides a diverse array of products, such as chemicals, plastics, performance products, and agricultural solutions. Its top offerings include high-performance chemicals, plastic materials for automotive and construction, coatings, adhesives, personal care solutions, and agricultural inputs. Additionally, BASF plays a pivotal role in the oleochemicals sector, providing key raw materials for various industries.

BASF has an extensive global presence, operating in over 80 countries with more than 390 production sites and six integrated sites. The company exports its products to a wide range of markets, including Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, catering to the specific needs of regional markets.

BASF is committed to sustainability and innovation. Notable initiatives include ChemCycling, which transforms plastic waste into new chemical products, and the company’s co-founding of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste. With around 112,000 employees globally, BASF continues to leverage research and development to lead in chemical innovation, addressing global challenges like climate change and resource scarcity.

DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

Year Founded
1802
NA
Number of Employees
30000
NA
Revenue
13000000000
NA

DuPont de Nemours, Inc., commonly known as DuPont, is a globally renowned American multinational chemical company esteemed for its groundbreaking innovations in various sectors, including materials science, electronics, and biotechnology. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, DuPont has been at the forefront of scientific advancement since its founding in 1802, originally focusing on gunpowder production before diversifying into an array of specialty chemicals and high-performance materials.

DuPont's impressive portfolio includes iconic products such as Teflon®, known for its non-stick properties; Kevlar®, famous for its strength; and Tyvek®, widely used in construction. The company also specializes in products for the electronics, healthcare, and industrial markets, providing advanced solutions that enhance productivity, safety, and sustainability.

Though DuPont is well-known for its expansive range of products, its influence in the oleochemicals market is notable. Oleochemicals are chemicals derived from natural fats and oils, and are used in detergents, lubricants, and other industrial applications. DuPont's commitment to innovation and sustainability aligns well with the principles of the oleochemicals industry, offering eco-friendly and high-efficiency solutions to its customers.

With a robust presence in various export markets, DuPont serves customers across more than 90 countries, particularly in regions such as Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Americas. The company’s global reach is supported by its numerous facilities and offices worldwide, reinforcing its role as a key player in the international marketplace.

As of the latest reports in 2023, DuPont boasts a revenue of approximately $13 billion and employs around 30,000 people globally. The company's consistent focus on innovation, along with its adherence to sustainable practices, ensures that it continues to thrive in an ever-evolving market, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the chemical industry.

Evonik Industries

Year Founded
2007
NA
Number of Employees
37106
NA
Revenue
12199
NA

Evonik Industries is a global leader in the specialty chemicals sector, known for its innovative and sustainable solutions across a wide range of industries. With a diverse portfolio of products, the company specializes in delivering high-performance materials such as specialty additives, polymers, and high-purity colloidal silica. Additionally, Evonik is prominent in the Oleochemicals market, providing essential chemical components for various applications.

Evonik operates in numerous export markets, distributing its products to over 100 countries worldwide. Key industries served by Evonik include automotive, aerospace, agriculture, healthcare, and consumer goods. Notable products like the sustainable catalyst Octamaxâ„¢, which enhances sulfur removal in refinery fuels, reflect the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Founded in 2007, following the restructuring of the RAG AG mining and technology group, Evonik has its headquarters in Essen, Germany. The company has grown to become the second-largest chemicals producer in Germany and is recognized for its extensive export markets in North America, Europe, and Asia. With significant manufacturing and research facilities, including major sites in North America, Evonik maintains a robust international presence.

The company employs approximately 37,106 professionals worldwide, demonstrating its expansive reach and operational capabilities. Evonik's dedication to research and development is evidenced by investments in projects such as the Lipid Innovation Center in Lafayette, Indiana, and the Innovation Satellite in Greater Boston. This commitment positions Evonik well to address complex challenges in the modern marketplace.

Kao Specialties Americas

Year Founded
1987
NA
Number of Employees
100
NA
Revenue
7000000000
NA

Kao Specialties Americas (KSA) is a prominent player in the chemicals industry, known for its extensive manufacturing capabilities and specialization in oleochemicals, performance chemicals, and specialty chemicals, including imaging materials and aroma chemicals. As part of the Kao Group, KSA operates on a sprawling 57-acre facility in High Point, North Carolina, enhancing its strength in the American market.

The company's top products include KALCOL® Fatty Alcohol derived from palm kernel or coconut oil and FARMIN® Fatty Amines showcasing KSA’s prowess in oleochemical production. These products, along with the MIGHTY® Series for concrete applications and advanced surfactants, highlight their diverse portfolio catering to various industries such as home care, personal care, agriculture, and construction.

Founded in 1987 following the acquisition of High Point Chemical Corporation, the company celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2022, marking decades of innovation and growth. KSA is deeply aligned with the principles of the Kao Way and the philosophy of Yoki-Monozukuri, emphasizing the creation of products that offer excellent value and enhance customer satisfaction.

The company emphasizes sustainability and environmental protection, underlined by their commitment to the Responsible Care Initiative. They constantly seek to minimize environmental impact while ensuring the safety and well-being of employees and neighbors.

With a strong export market, KSA serves North America extensively and is strategically positioned to engage global markets, thereby expanding its reach. The company's dedication to quality, research, and development ensures a robust supply of high-performance products, maintaining its reputation as a trusted supplier in the specialty chemicals industry.

Future Supply Dynamics

Looking ahead, the supply of oleochemicals in the United States is poised for significant evolution. Regulations favoring sustainable and eco-friendly products are expected to steer the market towards greener manufacturing practices. Additionally, advancements in biotechnological processes promise to enhance the efficiency and scalability of oleochemical production. Market dynamics, such as increased demand from the personal care and pharmaceutical sectors, will likely drive further investments and expansions within the industry. As regulatory frameworks and consumer preferences continue to evolve, U.S. suppliers are well-positioned to adapt and maintain their competitive edge in the global market.

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