Exhibitor Interview: Brenntag on supply security, partnerships and the evolving role of chemical distribution

As the global leader in chemicals and ingredients distribution, Brenntag plays a key role in connecting producers with customers across complex supply chains. With operations in more than 70 countries and expertise across multiple industries, the company supports industries such as pharmaceuticals, personal care and nutrition.

Ahead of Chemspec Europe, we spoke with three members of Brenntag’s Pharma EMEA team. Manuel Keune, Project Manager, Dr. Daniela Knedel, Industry Market Manager and Rui Campainha, Industry Market Manager. 

Together, they discuss how the role of distributors is evolving, the trends shaping the fine and specialty chemicals sector, and the continued importance of industry events.

For those unfamiliar with Brenntag, how would you describe your core offering and the markets you serve?

Manuel Keune: Brenntag is the global leader in the distribution of chemicals and ingredients, offering a comprehensive portfolio and reliable supply in more than 70 countries.

We combine industry leading logistics with technical and regulatory expertise, alongside value added services such as blending, packaging and formulation support. This helps our customers simplify operations and bring innovations to market faster. We serve a wide range of industries including pharmaceuticals, nutrition, personal care and cleaning, ensuring customers have efficient and reliable access to both essential process chemicals and specialty ingredients. As a trusted partner in the chemical value chain, we help customers innovate faster, streamline operations and grow with confidence.

Brenntag plays a key role in connecting producers and customers. How has that role evolved in recent years?

Manuel Keune: The role of the distributor has evolved significantly in recent years. We at Brenntag have moved from being a traditional intermediary to increasingly acting as a strategic partner within the chemical value chain.

Today, we act as an orchestrator of chemical value chains. That includes stronger specialisation through strategic portfolio management, deeper technical and regulatory support, and expanding into emerging areas such as new energy markets.

Meanwhile, digital tools and advanced supply-chain capabilities are transforming how efficiently we can connect suppliers and customers. Sustainability is also becoming a defining priority, changing how products are sourced, handled and delivered.

What key trends are you currently seeing in the fine and specialty chemicals sector?

Dr. Daniela Knedel: One of the clearest trends we see is that customers are prioritising supply security and reliable regional sourcing. In many cases, resilience, transparency and product availability are now more important than price alone.

We’re also seeing regulatory requirements and quality expectations continue to increase. Sustainability considerations are also becoming more prominent.

This means distributors are expected to provide more than products. They must offer technical expertise, strong documentation and regulatory support to help customers meet these evolving requirements.

How do events like Chemspec Europe support distributors in staying close to both suppliers and end users?

Dr. Daniela Knedel: Chemspec Europe is extremely valuable because it brings together all parts of the value chain in one place. For distributors, it creates an efficient opportunity to meet both suppliers and customers, exchange insights on market developments and discuss upcoming projects. Face-to-face conversations still make a big difference when it comes to building trust and moving discussions forward.

How does exhibiting align with your wider objectives around visibility, partnerships and market positioning?

Manuel Keune: Exhibiting plays an important role in supporting Brenntag’s wider strategic objectives. It provides a platform to showcase our innovations and application expertise, helping to strengthen brand awareness and reinforce our position as a thought leader in the industry.

It also enables us to deepen relationships with both customers and suppliers. Face-to-face engagement allows us to exchange ideas, explore opportunities and accelerate the development of new solutions together.

At the same time, exhibiting publicly demonstrates the strength of Brenntag’s global network, technical capabilities and industry expertise. In that sense, it not only enhances our visibility but also reinforces our competitive positioning and supports our broader focus on innovation-led growth.

What would you say to other distributors who are considering whether Chemspec Europe is worth exhibiting at?

Rui Campainha: If you operate in the fine and specialty chemicals sector, Chemspec Europe is a must-attend event. The audience is highly focused and knowledgeable, which means conversations are relevant and productive. Aside from generating leads, it’s also an opportunity to strengthen relationships and gain a clearer understanding of where the market is heading.

As a member of VCI, how important is it for distributors to show up and be visible at industry-leading events?

Manuel Keune: It’s important to support the wider industry network and contribute to its continued growth. Chemspec Europe provides a key platform for this, bringing together VCI members alongside suppliers, customers and partners across the value chain. Being there allows us to strengthen those connections and play a role in shaping industry conversations.

Ultimately, presence sends a strong signal. It shows commitment to the market and to the wider industry community and ensures you remain visible to both customers and suppliers.

If you could describe the Chemspec Europe experience in three words, what would they be, and why?

Rui Campainha: Focused, efficient and strategic.

The audience is highly relevant, which makes the event very focused. It’s efficient because you can meet many key partners within a short time frame. And it’s strategic because the discussions that take place often shape future collaborations and sourcing decisions.