The ALTANA Group develops and manufactures high-quality, innovative specialty chemical products. Our four divisions – BYK, ECKART, ELANTAS, and ACTEGA – have set worldwide standards in their markets. Our innovative products enable companies to develop future technologies today, technologies that make life easier, safer, and more comfortable. With sales of about € 2.7 billion euros, we are one of the world’s most innovative, fastest-growing and profitable specialty chemical companies. We currently employ around 8,000 people who develop good ideas for the world of tomorrow.
Long Tradition
1873 - Start of a successful career
The roots of ALTANA AG go back to the year 1873, when Dr. Heinrich Byk began producing chemicals. In 1941 Dr. Günther Quandt acquired the majority of shares in the subsequent BYK-Chemie. From 1977, the company became part of the newly formed ALTANA AG. Today the ALTANA Group is divided into four divisions:
- BYK
- ECKART
- ELANTAS
- ACTEGA
Worldwide Presence
Sites: 90 companies in total with 64 production sites and 68 laboratory centers
ALTANA is a global specialty chemicals company with employees and sites all over the world.
ALTANA’s global presence ensures that it is close to its customers and has a leading position in its target markets.
Success
Total sales of about € 2.7 billion
With sales of of about € 2.7 billion, we are one of the world’s most innovative, fastest-growing, and profitable chemical companies.
Employees
Around 8,000 employees worldwide
At ALTANA, we have exceptionally highly motivated, committed, and qualified staff who are our true capital. They apply their knowledge of innovative technologies, worldwide markets, technical applications, and processes precisely where it is needed.
Today, around 8,000 people around the world work daily on the products and services of the ALTANA Group.
Trainees
155 trainees
One of ALTANA’s top priorities is to provide excellent training to ensure that its employees are qualified. 155 young women and men received training at ALTANA in 2023. Depending on the site, our companies offer various chemical, technical, and commercial apprenticeships.
Research & Development
About 7 Percent of sales in research & development
In order to be able to offer our customers added value all over the world, we invest in our research and development above average.
- On average around 7 percent of sales are invested in research and development each year.
- The expenses have increased by more than 70 percent within the past 10 years.
- One employee in six is employed in research and development.