The Goal
Chemlink Laboratories, a premier manufacturer and formulator of specialty, small-format cleaning solutions for commercial and consumer applications, was at a pivotal moment. After decades of growth and innovation, the company’s leadership set out to:
• Transition to retirement by selling 100% of the business
• Maximize value by securing a premium purchase price reflective of Chemlink’s intellectual property and trusted reputation with Fortune 500 clients
• Identify a strategic acquirer capable of leveraging the company’s patent-protected IP to expand into new markets, enhance product offerings, and drive global growth
• Provide stability for employees, ensuring job security, career advancement opportunities, and improved benefits under the new ownership
The Challenge
Chemlink was a recognized leader in its niche, supported by proprietary technology, a loyal customer base, and a strong operational team. However, like many successful privately-held businesses, the company faced challenges as it approached a sale:
• Unlocking hidden value: The owners understood the value of the company’s IP, but needed expert guidance to achieve a valuation that accurately reflected the company’s potential
• Navigating the deal process: A high-stakes transaction required a strategic, confidential, and efficient process to attract the right buyer and secure optimal terms.
• Securing the future: The leadership team was deeply invested in ensuring the company’s legacy, employees, and market reputation would thrive under new ownership.
Chemlink’s senior executive team chose De NES Partners based on the firm’s reputation for delivering exceptional outcomes, its industry expertise, and the assurance of hands-on senior-level attention.
The Solution
De NES Partners launched a meticulous process to prepare the company for market, identify the most suitable buyers, and negotiate favorable terms. However, as preparations unfolded, Ecolab, Inc. (NYSE: ECL) — a global leader and long-time Chemlink customer — approached with a pre-emptive offer.
De NES recognized Ecolab as an ideal partner, with the resources and strategic vision to unlock Chemlink’s full potential. Leveraging the principals’ expertise, De NES negotiated a transaction that Paul Reid, Chemlink’s CEO, described as, “a purchase price I thought frankly was simply unobtainable.”
The Results: A Transformational Outcome
• For the owners: The transaction far exceeded financial expectations, providing life-changing rewards and fulfilling their goals for retirement.
• For the buyer: Ecolab gained proprietary technology, a proven operational model, and a trusted partner to expand its offerings on a global scale.
• For the employees: All employees retained their roles, received enhanced benefits packages, and joined an industry leader with long-term growth opportunities.
As Paul Reid summarized, “This was a win-win-win: a win for shareholders, richly rewarded beyond their most ambitious expectations; a win for Ecolab, with a strategic vision to grow the business globally; and a win for employees, who now have bright futures under Ecolab.”
Why De NES Partners?
Chemlink’s leadership credited De NES Partners’ principals for their expertise, guidance, and dedication throughout the process:
• Paul Reid, CEO: “The efforts of De NES Partners – Doug Hubert and Don Schaeffer – proved to be a resounding success. Their relentless, attentive, and expert advice were instrumental in the sale of my company at a purchase price I thought frankly was simply unobtainable. Doug and Don were with me every step of the way, supplying all of the experience, expertise, and wisdom needed to deliver an outstanding result.”
• Chuck Walker, Founder: “Doug and Don were the ultimate professionals—calm during stressful moments and a delight to work with. We consider them part of our Chemlink family and will forever be grateful for how they made a dream come true.”
The De NES Advantage
De NES Partners specializes in representing owners of privately held businesses across the United States with revenue between $15-250 million and EBITDA between $4-25 million. With over 50 years of combined mergers and acquisitions advisory experience, the firm’s principals deliver unparalleled results by combining industry expertise, hands-on service, and a client-first approach.
If you’re ready to maximize the value of your business, secure its legacy, and achieve your goals, trust De NES Partners to guide you every step of the way.