| SIC Codes: | 5162 5169 |
| NAICS Codes: | 424690 424610 |
Companies in this industry distribute plastics materials, alkalis and chlorine, detergents and soaps, adhesives, and industrial gases. Major companies include Brenntag, Nexeo Solutions (formerly Ashland Distribution), and Univar.
Chemical distribution is a cyclical business dependent on industrial demand. The profitability of individual companies depends on an efficient distribution system. Larger companies can offer more products and services. Local and regional distributors can compete effectively through superior service or geographic focus. The industry is concentrated: the largest 50 companies generate more than half of revenue.
Major products are plastics materials, alkalis and chlorine, detergents and soaps, adhesives, and industrial gases. Plastics account for about a third of industry revenue.
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