Taylor Wessing advises Johnson Matthey Plc on its acquisition of Lancaster Synthesis Ltd for £14.15 million.

Taylor Wessing advised Johnson Matthey plc on its acquisition of the worldwide business of Lancaster Synthesis Limited "Lancaster" from Clariant Holdings UK Limited for £14.15 million.

Lancaster sells a wide range of organic chemicals to industrial and academic research institutions principally through catalogue sales and small scale bulk manufacturing operations in Morecambe and additional distribution facilities in the USA, Germany, France and India. The transaction was led by TWUK corporate partner Tim Eyles and involved TW's offices in both Frankfurt and Paris. Johnson Matthey's inhouse counsel advised in relation to the US aspects of the deal.

Tim Eyles commented:

"We are delighted to build upon our long standing relationship with Johnson Matthey alongside our German and French colleagues on this acquisition which should complement JM's existing Research Chemical business."

Also involved on the deal were corporate associates in the UK, Nick Hazell and Maria Welandson, Alison Askwith (environmental), Alan Evans (real estate), Leigh Lisk (tax) and Sarah Parkinson (employment).

In TW Germany, Hassan Sohbi (corporate), Andreas Metzner (distribution and services) and Markus Wirtz (merger control) advised with Carole Foulon (employment) and Gilles Amsallem (real estate) advising for TW France.

Andrew Pike and Lester Wilson of Hammonds advised Clariant in the UK.

Johnson & Matthey plc is a speciality chemicals company and a world leader in advanced materials technology. The group focuses on its core skills in catalysts, precious metals and speciality chemicals, developing products that enhance the quality of life for millions around the world. www.matthey.com

Lancaster Synthesis - part of the Clariant group, produces research chemicals catalogues which lead the market in technical content and unique products. Catalogues are published in the UK, USA, Germany, France India and Japan. www.lancastersynthesis.com