Top Suppliers and Manufacturers of Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) in Europe 🇪🇺

Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) is an anionic detergent and surfactant found in many personal care products as well as in industrial applications. It is highly effective as a foaming agent, emulsifier, and cleaning agent, making it a staple ingredient in shampoos, soaps, and detergents. With Europe being at the forefront of both chemical manufacturing and personal care industries, the region boasts a robust supplier base for SLES. Leading chemical companies and specialized suppliers are concentrated in countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. These suppliers maintain stringent quality standards and often engage in sustainable practices to meet the evolving needs of global markets. The competitive landscape in Europe ensures a steady supply of high-quality SLES, addressing both local and international demands.

BASF

Year Founded
1865
NA
Number of Employees
110000
NA
Revenue
78000000000
NA

BASF, headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is a leading global chemical company with a history dating back to 1865. Founded as Badische Anilin- und Soda-Fabrik, the company has grown into the world's largest chemical producer. BASF is widely recognized for its extensive portfolio, which includes chemicals, plastics, agricultural solutions, performance products, catalysts, coatings, and crop protection technologies.

Among its top products, BASF specializes in Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES), a widely used surfactant in personal care and cleaning products. BASF's commitment to innovation and sustainability is reflected in its development of high-quality SLES that meets the demands of various industries, from cosmetics to detergents.

BASF operates in over 80 countries, ensuring a significant presence in North America, Europe, and Asia. Their global reach extends to customers in more than 190 countries, supported by six integrated production sites and approximately 390 other production facilities worldwide. The company’s export markets are robust, with a strong focus on sectors such as automotive, construction, agriculture, and consumer goods.

Throughout its rich history, BASF has achieved numerous milestones, including the invention of the Haber-Bosch process, which revolutionized fertilizer production. The company also emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices through its diversified product lines, including fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, seeds, and seed treatments.

BASF's financial growth is impressive, with reported revenues of approximately $78 billion in 2023. The company employs around 110,000 professionals globally, fostering a diverse and innovative work environment dedicated to research and development. With a commitment to creating chemistry for a sustainable future, BASF continues to be a pioneer in the chemical industry, providing advanced materials and solutions to meet the evolving needs of society.

Evonik

Year Founded
2007
NA
Number of Employees
33106
NA
Revenue
12199
NA

Evonik is a global leader in specialty chemicals, recognized for its innovative products and solutions across a diverse range of industries. Established in 2007 through the restructuring of RAG AG, Evonik has quickly become one of the world’s largest specialty chemical companies. Their commitment to sustainability and high-performance products has solidified their reputation in the industry.

The company operates in over 100 countries, focusing on key markets in Europe, North America, and Asia. Among its vast product portfolio are advanced materials and specialty additives that enhance performance and efficiency. Notable products include silicones, methacrylate, performance polymers, and ultra-high purity colloidal silica. Additionally, Evonik supplies Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES), a surfactant essential in detergents and personal care products, highlighting their diverse chemical expertise.

Evonik’s strategic locations include major production sites in Essen, Germany, and North America, where it operates over 30 facilities, including a significant chemical manufacturing plant in Mobile, Alabama. Their Innovation Satellites in Greater Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts, foster advancements in healthcare and life sciences.

With a robust workforce of approximately 33,106 employees globally, Evonik continues to prioritize research and development to meet the evolving needs of its customers. The company’s sustainable practices contribute to the transition to a circular economy while fulfilling regulatory requirements. This commitment is seen in products like their sustainable catalyst, Octamax™, which improves sulfur removal in refinery fuel.

Evonik’s rich history, rooted in its inception in the mining sector and subsequent shift to chemicals, showcases its longstanding dedication to innovation and sustainability. Their continuous investment in R&D ensures it remains at the forefront of technological advancements, providing high-quality, customized chemical solutions globally.

Huntsman

Year Founded
1970
NA
Number of Employees
10000
NA
Revenue
8000000000
NA

Huntsman is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of differentiated chemicals, recognized for its innovation and commitment to sustainability. Among its vast product offerings, Huntsman specializes in high-performance materials, including Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES), which is widely used in detergents, personal care products, and industrial applications.

Founded in 1970 and headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, Huntsman has grown significantly over the decades. The company is renowned for its extensive range of products such as polyurethanes, epoxy resins, and performance products. Some of its top innovations include the SMARTLITE® O LTPU system for rapid manufacturing in the footwear industry and advanced cancer treatment protocols developed by the Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI).

With a strong reliance on export markets, Huntsman reaches customers globally across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The company's commitment to operational efficiency and sustainability is evident from its robust revenue figures, reporting $8 billion in 2022. Huntsman's dedication to the environment is complemented by their extensive research and customer-driven solutions.

Boasting a workforce of approximately 10,000 employees, Huntsman fosters a culture of collaboration and personal development. Their global presence is supported by multiple manufacturing facilities and operational hubs, enabling the company to deliver high-quality products and cater to a diverse array of industries including aerospace, automotive, construction, and textiles.

Huntsman remains at the forefront of the chemical industry, driven by a passion for innovation and excellence. Their legacy of sustainability and advanced solutions positions them as a key player in the global market, continuing to enhance lives and industries worldwide.

Solvay

Year Founded
1863
NA
Number of Employees
26000
NA
Revenue
12500000000
NA

Solvay is a leading global supplier, renowned for its specialty chemicals and advanced materials. Among its diverse product offerings, Solvay produces high-quality chemicals such as Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES), which is widely used in the personal care industry for products like shampoos and detergents.

Founded in 1863 and headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, Solvay has a rich history of innovation and excellence in the chemical industry. The company was initially established by Ernest and Alfred Solvay to produce sodium carbonate using the Solvay process. Over the years, Solvay has diversified its operations, focusing on sustainability and innovation across various sectors.

Solvay specializes in essential chemicals and advanced materials, with top products including polymer additives, fluorinated solutions, and high-performance polymers. These innovative solutions cater to industries such as automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and consumer goods. Solvay's commitment to sustainability is evident in products like Solvaclean®, designed to reduce carbon footprints and enhance efficiency.

With a presence in 53 countries and operating 145 sites worldwide, Solvay serves numerous export markets across North America, Europe, and Asia. This global footprint ensures that Solvay can meet regional compliance and performance standards while addressing the evolving needs of its international clientele.

As of 2022, Solvay reported a revenue of $12.5 billion and employed approximately 26,000 people. The company fosters a culture of diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility, reflecting its dedication to sustainable practices and corporate citizenship.

Recently, Solvay announced its plan to split into two entities by December 2023, continuing traditional activities under the Solvay name and transferring higher growth potential activities to a new company named Syensqo. This move underscores Solvay's ongoing commitment to innovation and growth in the chemical industry.

Clariant Corporation

Year Founded
1995
NA
Number of Employees
14500
NA
Revenue
4500000000
NA

Clariant Corporation is a leading global supplier specializing in high-performance specialty chemicals. While Clariant is renowned for its diverse chemical solutions, it also plays a significant role in the market of surfactants, which includes compounds like Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES). SLES is widely used in detergents, soaps, and personal care products, underscoring Clariant's contributions to the consumer goods industry.

Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Muttenz, Switzerland, Clariant has a rich history marked by innovation and a strong commitment to sustainability. The company's product portfolio encompasses a range of solutions, including catalysts, care chemicals, additives, and functional materials. These products cater to industries such as automotive, personal care, agriculture, and healthcare.

Clariant's top products include specialty chemicals, personal care formulations, and environmentally friendly additives. The company's focus on sustainable and innovative solutions defines its market strategy, reflecting its corporate purpose, “Greater chemistry – between people and planet.”

From a global perspective, Clariant exports its products to multiple regions, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. This extensive market presence enables Clariant to serve a diverse clientele, adapting to the unique demands of each market.

In 2022, Clariant reported revenues of $4.5 billion, showcasing its substantial impact within the specialty chemicals sector. The company employs approximately 14,500 individuals, reinforcing its capacity for innovation and sustainability through a dedicated workforce.

Clariant continues to expand its global footprint, aligned with its strategic goals of delivering high-value specialty chemicals and enhancing its market positions while maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Kao Corporation

Year Founded
1887
NA
Number of Employees
33000
NA
Revenue
13000
NA

Kao Corporation is a renowned global leader in the consumer goods industry, specializing in beauty care, health care, and household products. Among its notable brands are Attack, Bioré, Jergens, Laurier, Merries, and Molton Brown. The company has a significant presence in various export markets, including North America, Europe, and Asia, reflecting its global outreach and commitment to quality.

Founded in 1887 by Tomiro Nagase in Japan, Kao Corporation began as a manufacturer of soap and has since expanded its portfolio to include a wide range of consumer products. The company's headquarters are located in Tokyo, Japan, serving as the strategic hub for its global operations. Kao is also noted for its innovation in the chemical sector, particularly with products like Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES), which is widely used in detergents and personal care products.

Throughout its long history, Kao Corporation has been committed to sustainability and social value. It has made significant strides in research and development, focusing on products that meet the evolving needs of consumers while promoting environmental stewardship. Additionally, the company has been recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for 18 consecutive years.

As of 2023, Kao Corporation reported an annual revenue of approximately $13 billion and employs around 33,000 individuals worldwide. The company's strong market position is underpinned by its dedication to innovation, quality, and sustainability, which continue to drive its success in the global market.

Stepan

Year Founded
1932
NA
Number of Employees
2096
NA
Revenue
3000000000
NA

Stepan, headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois, is a prominent player in the chemical industry, specializing in the production of surfactants, polymers, and specialty chemicals. Since its founding in 1932 by Alfred C. Stepan, Jr., the company has grown to serve a wide range of industries, including household and industrial cleaning, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. One of Stepan's notable contributions is in the production of Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES), a key ingredient widely used in detergents and personal care products due to its excellent foaming and cleaning properties.

Stepan boasts a diverse portfolio of over 650 products and 390 formulations, which are manufactured across 20 global sites. The company's export markets span across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America, ensuring a global presence and the ability to meet diverse customer needs. Stepan's top products include surfactants like sulfates and carboxylates, which play critical roles in personal care and household applications.

The company is deeply committed to sustainability and innovation, making significant investments to ensure its products meet evolving market demands and stringent environmental standards. Stepan's facility in Maywood, New Jersey, holds the unique distinction of being the only commercial entity in the U.S. authorized to import coca leaves, which are used in creating coca extracts for popular soft drinks.

With a workforce of approximately 2,096 employees, Stepan emphasizes quality and innovation to cater to both consumer and industrial needs effectively. The company's comprehensive R&D capabilities, supported by over 230 technical resources with a combined expertise exceeding 2600 years, showcase its dedication to delivering value through advanced chemical solutions.

Croda International

Year Founded
1925
NA
Number of Employees
6100
NA
Revenue
1695
NA

Croda International is a prominent British specialty chemicals company renowned for its innovative solutions and sustainable practices. Established in 1925 by George William Crowe and Henry James Dawe, the company initially made its mark with the extraction of lanolin from sheep's wool during the Great Depression. Today, Croda has diversified its offerings to include a wide range of products used across various industries.

As one of the leading global suppliers, Croda's product portfolio is extensive, comprising personal care ingredients, health care formulations, home care solutions, and industrial applications. Additionally, they specialize in producing surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES), which is widely used in cosmetics and detergents due to its excellent cleaning and emulsifying properties.

Croda's commitment to innovation is evident in their diverse range of sectors, including crop care, lubricant additives, coatings and polymers, geo technologies, polymer additives, and advanced ceramics. Their focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly practices further bolsters their reputation in the industry.

With a robust export market, Croda serves customers worldwide, including in North America, EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa), and Asia Pacific. Their global footprint is supported by multiple production facilities located in the UK, France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, the US, Brazil, Singapore, India, Indonesia, Korea, and Japan. As of 2023, the company reported a revenue of £1,694.5 million, with a dedicated workforce of approximately 6,100 employees.

Croda's strategic focus on new and protected products (NPPs) has significantly contributed to their market growth. In 2022, NPPs accounted for approximately 35% of their sales. The company's strategic acquisitions and divestments, such as selling a major portion of their industrial businesses to Cargill, have streamlined their operations to concentrate on high-demand sectors like consumer care and life sciences.

DowDuPont

Year Founded
1802
NA
Number of Employees
24000
NA
Revenue
12100000000
NA

DowDuPont, formally known as DuPont de Nemours, Inc., stands as a titan in the global chemical industry. This American multinational company emerged from the landmark merger between DuPont and The Dow Chemical Company in 2017, creating a powerhouse that specializes in advanced materials and specialty products. DowDuPont plays a crucial role in various sectors, including agriculture, electronics, water, and advanced materials.

Among its impressive portfolio, DowDuPont is highly regarded for its production of Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES), an essential compound widely used in detergents and personal care products due to its excellent emulsifying and foaming properties. Beyond SLES, the company is known for products like Kevlar, Teflon, Corian, and Mylar, which have significant applications across industries such as construction, automotive, and electronics.

The company's commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident. By focusing on developing high-performance materials and chemicals, DowDuPont addresses critical challenges in various sectors. Its operations span numerous export markets, significantly impacting regions like North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

DowDuPont’s journey is steeped in history, tracing its roots back to 1802 with the founding of DuPont. Today, headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, the company's research and development efforts continue to drive advancements in material science. With a revenue of $12.1 billion in 2023 and a workforce of approximately 24,000 employees, DowDuPont remains a pivotal player in the chemical industry.

The merger was one of the largest in corporate history, valued at about $130 billion. Initially unified, DowDuPont has since strategically split into three separate companies—Dow, Corteva, and DuPont—each focusing on specific market needs. This reorganization has allowed DuPont to hone in on specialty products, reinforcing its legacy of innovation and leadership in the chemical field.

SoleChem Chemicals

Year Founded
2012
NA
Number of Employees
11
NA
Revenue
NA

SoleChem Chemicals is a distinguished supplier in the chemical industry, known for offering a broad spectrum of high-quality products tailored to a variety of industrial applications. Specializing in the production and distribution of chemicals, SoleChem is committed to innovation and sustainability, providing solutions that meet the stringent needs of different sectors.

The company’s top products include industrial chemicals, specialty chemicals, and additives. Among these, Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) stands out as a key product. SLES is widely used in cleaning products, detergents, and personal care items due to its excellent emulsifying, foaming, and cleansing properties. SoleChem’s dedication to quality ensures that their SLES is highly effective, meeting the rigorous demands of both industrial and consumer markets.

SoleChem Chemicals has a strong presence in international export markets, including Europe, North America, and Asia. This extensive reach underscores their ability to adapt to various market needs, delivering solutions that enhance performance and efficiency in processes ranging from manufacturing to formulation.

Founded in 2012 and based in Istanbul, Turkey, SoleChem draws on its strategic location to efficiently serve clients in both domestic and international markets. The company’s core expertise lies in providing tailor-made industrial water treatment chemicals and engineering services, enabling their clients to achieve significant operational efficiency and cost savings. Their specialization in formulating and applying custom antiscalants for sectors like gold mining and geothermal power plants has been particularly impactful.

With a dedicated team of professionals, SoleChem Chemicals continues to invest in research and development to pioneer new products that align with modern regulatory standards and industry practices aimed at reducing environmental impact. The company has grown steadily over the years, driven by innovation and a strong commitment to quality, although specific revenue and employee count details are not publicly available.

Future Supply Dynamics

Looking ahead, the supply of Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) in Europe is expected to evolve in response to various market and regulatory dynamics. The increasing consumer emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly products is pushing suppliers to adopt greener manufacturing practices and source sustainable raw materials. Furthermore, stringent European Union regulations regarding chemical safety and environmental impact are forcing companies to innovate. This will likely lead to an increase in research and development initiatives focused on producing SLES with lower environmental footprints. Additionally, market dynamics such as fluctuating raw material prices and geopolitical factors could influence the supply chain. Nonetheless, Europe's established infrastructure and commitment to quality and sustainability position it well to adapt to these changes while continuing to meet global demands.

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