HB Fuller acquires UK-based HS Butyl

To accelerate its entry into the global waterproofing tape market, US adhesive giant HB Fuller has acquired HS Butyl, the UK's largest butyl tape manufacturer and distributor, which produces tapes widely used in the construction, infrastructure, automotive and renewable energy industries. Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.

In 2022, HB Fuller expanded its existing butyl tape technology platform through the acquisition of GSSI Sealants, a North American manufacturer with a strong butyl tape product portfolio. Now, HB Fuller said in a statement that the company hopes to use these capabilities and its global distribution network to further develop HS Butyl's innovative technology in Europe, where the waterproofing tape market is twice the size of North America.

Celeste Mastin, President and CEO of HB Fuller, said, “This acquisition establishes HB Fuller’s position in the European waterproofing tape market, expands our position as a solutions provider to existing customers, and increases our relevance in additional markets.” Mastin added, “HS Butyl’s innovative technology platform not only complements and completes our existing butyl product line for construction adhesives customers, but also creates a very attractive opportunity to provide new, in-demand solutions to customers in the engineered adhesives market as the technology is relevant to a variety of high-value applications.”

HS Butyl is a family-owned company headquartered in Linmington, UK, founded in 1964. HS Butyl has annual sales of more than $23 million and exports to more than 50 countries around the world. The new business will be part of HB Fuller’s Construction Adhesives global business unit.