Albemarle Corporate History

Creating chemistry for life, Albemarle has grown into an international producer of specialty chemicals by developing a formula for success based on providing chemistry that enhances people’s lives and contributes to the global economy.

In 1962 Albemarle Paper Manufacturing Company, founded in Virginia in 1887, borrowed $200 million and purchased Ethyl Corporation a company more than thirteen times its size. In 1994, Ethyl spun off its chemical businesses to create an independent, publicly traded company named Albemarle Corporation.

Albemarle Corporation has evolved into a globally recognized specialty chemical manufacturing enterprise. A series of strategic divestures and acquisitions have allowed Albemarle to focus on core competencies and value added specialty chemical businesses. Albemarle also increased its global presence through alliances and acquisitions in Asia Pacific, Europe and South America. These agreements have catapulted Albemarle into number 1 and 2 positions in nearly all of its global markets.

In the new millennium, Albemarle has focused on a steady growth based on bolt-on acquisitions and in 2004 a third business segment. This puzzle piece or bolt on concept of growth has allowed Albemarle to continue to remain focused and committed to our core competencies, principles and attention to customer service.