US global investment firm Carlyle has reached an agreement with Lone Star to acquire its subsidiary Altadia, the world's largest manufacturer of ceramic tile intermediates. Carlyle will support Altadia in accelerating its growth plan through the development of its leading R&D platform, and through strategic acquisitions to further expand its presence in international markets.

The group, formed in 2021, was created as a result of the transformational merger between Esmalglass-Itaca and Ferro Tile Coatings, consolidating its market-leading position in all ceramic specialities, including the production of inkjet inks, body stains, glaze stains and frits and glazes. Serving a diversified global customer base, including leading international ceramic tile producers, Altadia employs over 3,600 people in 19 countries, with a global manufacturing footprint consisting of 32 production plants and 19 distribution centres.

"In the last four years, thanks to the company's strong entrepreneurial spirit, unique service offering and long-standing relationships with a highly diversified and global customer base, Altadia has succeeded in transforming itself into a global market leader," said Vincente Bagan, CEO of Altadia. Alex Wagenberg, Managing Director of Carlyle Europe Partners' advisory team, highlighted "Altadia's success over several years", recognising "its strong track record of launching innovative, successful products and technologies, its leading market position in tile coatings in a growing ceramics industry, and the investment it has made in terms of innovation and improved sustainability".

^{Photo: Altadia}