30 years of Greater Chemistry
Delivering on Clariant's purpose »Greater chemistry - between people and planet.«
This story is an example of how Clariant delivers on its purpose-led strategy.
In 2025, Clariant marked a milestone that went far beyond numbers: 30 years of innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to creating 'Greater chemistry - between people and planet'. Now, as we look back on that landmark year, the anniversary stands as a powerful reflection of what has truly driven Clariant's success over three decades.
A journey shaped by people — with a purpose
Even though the purpose statement we use today, ‘Greater chemistry - between people and planet’, was coined in 2021, the spirit behind it was already well established. It was only through internal surveys of our people and subsequently also of our customers, that we nailed down clearly what it was that made Clariant put the “special” in specialty chemicals. The results were clustered clearly around sustainability leadership, innovative chemistry, customer focus and the engagement that Clariant colleagues demonstrate at work every day.
That spirit came vividly to life during July’s Global Anniversary townhall, where colleagues around the world joined across two sessions to look back on 30 years of shared achievements. Long-serving employees shared personal stories from Clariant’s early days, while leadership offered reflections on defining moments that shaped the company. One highlight was a special “director’s cut” anniversary video, featuring colleagues who have been part of the journey since 1995, which offered a moving reminder of the deep personal connections behind Clariant’s global success.
Charlene Obrietan from Group Communications interviews CEO Conrad Keijzer and General Counsel
Judith Bischof
Creativity, connection, and celebration around the globe
Throughout the year, anniversary celebrations took many forms. Teams across continents gathered for cake celebrations at sites worldwide, turning a milestone into a shared moment of joy… literally, with birthday cakes enjoyed from Asia to Europe to the Americas!
Creativity also took center stage in a global photo contest, where colleagues were challenged to form or build the number “30” in imaginative ways. From carefully staged human formations to intricately constructed designs, the entries showcased both ingenuity and team spirit. The winning photo, submitted by colleagues from Clariant IGL Specialty Chemicals Private Limited in Kashipur, India, impressed the voters with the attention to detail:
Our colleagues at the CISC in Kashipur won the contest with this amazingly detailed photo.
Learning from the past, shaping the future
Clarita played a central role in another anniversary highlight: the Clarita History Lessons. These bite-sized explorations into Clariant’s past uncovered fascinating stories from the archives and connected newer colleagues with the company’s heritage. Presented by Clariant’s very own AI colleague “Clarita”, some of the most popular questions included:
When did Clariant first operate under its current name?
In 1995, marking the start of its independent journey.
Which values have remained constant over three decades?
A strong focus on safety, innovation, and responsible chemistry.
What achievement best reflects Clariant’s safety culture?
Sites such as Clariant Australia reaching 30 years without a lost-time accident, a powerful testament to continuous commitment and care.
Making a difference beyond the anniversary
The celebrations also extended beyond Clariant’s own walls. Through the “30 Acts of Kindness” initiative, colleagues proposed projects that created positive impact in their local communities. Supported by grants from the Clariant Foundation, teams contributed to educational, environmental, cultural, scientific, and social initiatives, often going further by volunteering their time and expertise. See some below!
Supporting homeless people in São Paulo
Volunteers reach out to people experiencing homelessness on the streets of São Paulo, offering support and guidance to help them find housing and rebuild their lives.
Empowering women entrepreneurs with SEBRAE
In partnership with SEBRAE, women receive training and support to develop entrepreneurial skills and build their own small businesses.
“Kitchen project” – Bweya children’s home, Uganda
The renovation of the kitchen and main hall at Bweya Children’s Home creates healthier, more sustainable living conditions and a better environment for children to grow and learn.
Supporting the Pfennigparade Foundation
Clariant supported a fundraising event in Bitterfeld for the Pfennigparade Foundation, which promotes inclusion and independence for people with physical disabilities.
Looking ahead
Looking back at 2025, one message stands out clearly: Clariant's strength lies in the passion, commitment, and diversity of its people across the globe. As we move forward into 2026, already well underway, it's been wonderful to reflect on all those memorable moments from our anniversary year. Thirty years of greater chemistry have been built on collaboration, trust, and a shared purpose, and those same foundations will continue to shape the decades ahead.
Here’s to the next 30 years of greater chemistry!
