Introduction to Wacker Chemie
Joerg Hoffmann introduces Wacker Chemie, a global leader in speciality chemical manufacturing. With over 16,000 employees, the company achieved an impressive €6.4 billion in sales and €824 million EBITDA in 2023, a testament to its exceptional performance. The company operates through four distinct business segments, each vitally involved in delivering innovative solutions to diverse industries worldwide. These segments are Silicones, Polymers, Polysilicon, and biosolutions.
Business Segments at a Glance
Silicones
The largest segment, Silicones, represents a cornerstone of Wacker’s business. Silicones are versatile materials in countless applications, from construction and healthcare to renewable energy and automotive. With 85% of sales driven by speciality silicone products, the segment demonstrates Wacker’s focus on high-margin, customised solutions. The presentation also highlights the integration of silicones with polysilicon production, maximising resource efficiency.
Polymers
The Polymers segment specialises in adhesives, paints, and coatings, playing a key role in sustainable construction. Through innovations like dispersible polymer powders and vinyl acetate ethylene-based adhesives, Wacker delivers solutions that enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints. Applications include construction materials, food packaging, and textiles, with significant growth driven by the global trend toward urbanisation and green building standards.
Polysilicon
Wacker is the global leader in polysilicon manufacturing for semiconductor and solar applications. Nearly half of all computer microchips globally contain Wacker polysilicon, pivotal in enabling cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, connectivity, and renewable energy solutions. The solar segment also benefits from Wacker’s superior quality and cost efficiency, which positions the company as a leader in sustainable energy transformation.
Biosolutions
The Biosolutions division is a fast-growing business focusing on biotechnology and advanced medicine. Through mRNA and pDNA production innovations, Wacker addresses high-growth markets in biopharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Its expertise in microbial fermentation supports next-generation pharmaceuticals, emphasising sustainability and scalability in drug manufacturing processes.
Strategic Focus and Market Leadership
Wacker Chemie prides itself on being a market leader in all its segments, ranking as #1 or #2 globally. The presentation underscores the company’s unique position in leveraging its integrated value chain and advanced technology to provide tailored solutions across multiple industries, including construction, healthcare, electronics, and renewable energy. Wacker’s commitment to innovation is evident in its continuous development of new products and solutions.
Sustainability and ESG Commitments
Joerg Hoffmann emphasises Wacker’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, a core value that guides all its operations. The company targets reducing CO2 emissions by 50% by 2030. The company’s innovative products, such as water-based adhesives and advanced silicones, are crucial in helping customers meet their sustainability goals. Wacker’s operations are supported by renewable energy sources like hydropower, further reducing its environmental footprint.
Conclusion
Wacker Chemie exemplifies the German “Mittelstand” philosophy of combining technical excellence with a customer-first approach. Wacker is well-positioned for long-term growth with its diversified product portfolio, commitment to sustainability, and leadership in key markets. Joerg Hoffmann concludes by inviting investors and stakeholders to join Wacker on its innovation, value creation, and sustainability journey.