Italian Kerakoll acquires majority stake in Caltra Netherlands

Kerakoll S.p.A., an internationally operating specialist in building materials from Italy, has acquired 60% of the shares of Caltra Nederland B.V. of Mijdrecht. Caltra specializes in the development, production and sale of cement-containing supplements (SCMs) and low CO₂ clinkers. The transaction, accompanied by Marktlink, marks a strategic step in making the cement industry more sustainable.

Caltra was founded in 1984 by Ludo van Nes and has been run by his children Stephan and Daniëlle since 2013. The company, with 15 permanent employees and sales of around 10 million euros, focuses on innovative and sustainable cementitious additives. Caltra currently has three production sites in the Netherlands and expects to have a fourth plant operational in Nieuwveen by the end of Q3 2025.

Sustainable cooperation

The aim of the transaction is to pool knowledge and resources to develop alternative binders with low carbon emissions. This responds to the growing market demand for more sustainable building materials, as the cement industry is responsible for approximately 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Sustainability as a growth opportunity

Ten years ago, the father's shares were acquired by daughter and son, who saw opportunities in sustainable cementitious additives. The increasing demand for green alternatives made it clear that Caltra did not have the capacity to exploit the full market potential. Together with Marktlink, they therefore sought a strategic partner to strengthen its commercial clout and R&D capacity.

The transaction, according to Fabio Sghedoni, Vice President of Kerakoll, another step in the company's innovation and sustainability process. "Today's market dynamics require creativity and a broader vision with a proactive approach to embrace change. This fits perfectly with Kerakoll's approach. We are delighted to welcome Danielle, Stephan and the entire Caltra team. We share the same values and commitment to sustainable innovation. I am confident that together we can start bringing groundbreaking solutions for our industry to market."

Marco Zini, CEO of Kerakoll Group adds: " "With this strategic partnership, we are strengthening our European presence, especially in terms of knowledge about components essential for the development of alternative cements, such as SCMs and low CO₂ clinker. Access to high-quality raw materials is increasingly important for a sustainable future in the construction industry."

International interest

According to Remon Lustenhouwer, partner at Market Link, there was a lot of interest in Caltra: "Caltra's IP was seen by many strategic buyers as a solution to their sustainability goals and the security of raw material supply. Kerakoll ultimately proved to be the best acquisition partner because of its strong R&D department and ability for vertical integration. The existing cooperation and shared vision for sustainability were the deciding factors. This combination offers Caltra the opportunity to quickly increase its market position and realize its sustainable growth ambitions."

Common future

Daniëlle and Stephan van Nes together retain a 40% stake and remain responsible for the day-to-day management of Caltra. The cooperation with Kerakoll will enable them to jointly accelerate and further develop innovative, sustainable solutions in the construction chemicals industry. They will continue to play an active role in the implementation of the ambitious intended development projects.

Daniëlle and Stephan van Nes: "We are excited to be part of the Kerakoll Group, a leading player with a proven track record of sustainable innovation. We are convinced that together we have a promising and successful future ahead of us. Together we can fulfill our growth ambitions and achieve a sustainable future for Caltra."