UK consultancy buys REACH-centred institute from Cefic

London – London-based environmental and sustainability consultancy ERM has acquired ReachCentrum, a player in the registration market for REACH – the European Union’s regulation on chemicals and their safe use.

In a deal signed with the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic)on 30 March, the two bodies agreed on the acquisition for an undisclosed amount.

A press release by ERM on 16 April said that final arrangements were underway and the acquisition was expected to be completed by the end of May.

ReachCentrum has 13 staff and is based in Brussels, Belgium. It was created in June 2006 by Cefic to help companies throughout the value chain prepare for and implement REACH.

“Considering the strong link with product sustainability, the acquisition of ReachCentrum fits well with our aspiration to be recognised as the leading global sustainability consultancy,” said ERM CEO John Alexander.

“The acquisition of ReachCentrum will give excellent access to ERM in the European and global chemical sector, a key sector for our business.

“Furthermore, it will give us a strong market position in dossier registration under REACH regulation and position us well for other regulatory support in the product space which will continue after the final 2018 REACH registration deadline.”

Cefic will remain available to ReachCentrum and ERM to ensure a smooth transition and that ReachCentrum has a successful future.

A four-year ongoing co-operation agreement formalises this.