Effective Jan. 1, 2013, chemical and colorant manufacturer and distributor First Source Worldwide LLC (FSW), Neenah, Wis., has acquired the Dalton, Ga.-based dyes business of custom chemical formulator Manufacturers Chemicals, Cleveland, Tenn.
As a small to mid-size dye supplier, Manufacturers Chemicals has been searching for a way to exit that sector because of competitive challenges. "Dyes have become an increasingly difficult product line for small to mid-size suppliers," a company spokesman noted. "The manufacturing base and supply chain are ever changing and the inability for small to mid-size companies to compete with the proper level of pricing and quality became apparent to us in 2011. We spent a large part of 2012 trying to determine how best to structure an exit strategy that would be beneficial to our customers. First Source Worldwide was the perfect candidate to service our customers," he added, noting FSW's position and credibility in all the markets it serves and its dye technology expertise.
"We see a huge opportunity to participate in the carpet and rug industry," said FSW CEO Dale Clark, noting advantages FSW offers including financial stability, its portfolio of dye manufacturing partners and its technical depth. "We plan to offer quality, sensible pricing, environmental stewardship and technical services in a highly focused customer-friendly manner."
The acquisition comprises operations at Manufacturers Chemicals' former site on Waring Road in Dalton including Nauta blending equipment, a customer service laboratory, a warehouse dedicated to the carpet industry and local delivery services. In addition, FSW plans to upgrade the facility's computer, color match and spectrophotometer, trucking, packaging, and accounting systems. Former Manufacturers Chemicals employee and carpet and rug industry veteran Robby Quarles is managing the operation.
