Last Updated:

2024-04-28 01:26:56

BASF

Chemical producer and multinational company



Chemical producer and multinational company

BASF, originally a dye manufacturer in 1865, is now the largest chemical producer globally. It operates in over 80 countries with numerous production sites and customers worldwide. Despite its historical controversies, BASF has grown significantly and continues to be a major player in the chemical industry.

SAP Bayer 04 Leverkusen Red Bull GmbH Bauhaus FC Bayern Munich Borussia Dortmund BMW Novartis Bundesliga UBS Group AG

1861

Founding of BASF by Frederick Engelhorn

BASF was founded in 1861 by Frederick Engelhorn, a jeweler, in Mannheim. The company became known for manufacturing dyes from coal tar, with a specialty in producing the bright bluish purple dye known as indigo.

1865-04-06

Foundation of Badische Anilin- & Sodafabrik (BASF)

On April 6, 1865, Friedrich Engelhorn establishes a stock corporation in Mannheim called Badische Anilin- & Sodafabrik (BASF), introducing a pioneering business concept.

1866

Hiring of First Company Physician by BASF

In 1866, just a year after its establishment, BASF becomes the first company in the German chemical industry to employ a company physician.

1868

Initiation of In-house Research at BASF

In 1868, BASF begins conducting in-house research activities, marking a significant development in its operations.

1869-06

Discovery of Aniline Dyes

In 1869, Heinrich Caro, a German chemist working for BASF, developed a synthesis for alizarin, a red dye, using aniline. This discovery was significant in the commercial production of synthetic dyes and led to further developments in the dyestuff industry.

1870

Establishment of BASF in North America

In 1870, BASF established its presence in North America, marking the beginning of its regional history in the continent.

1873-03-10

Opening of BASF's First United States-based Office

On March 10, 1873, BASF opened its first United States-based office on Duane Street in New York City through a limited partnership with Pickhardt & Kuttroff. The office was headed by Adolf Kuttroff and marked the second foreign sales office for BASF.

1877

BASF's First Foreign Production Site

In 1877, BASF established its initial production facility outside of Germany in Butirki, which is now a part of Moscow, Russia.

1880

Introduction of Solvay Process Soda

In 1880, BASF adopted the much cheaper Solvay process for producing sodium carbonate (soda), replacing the Leblanc process. This transition marked a significant change in the production process of BASF.

1885

Theodor Sproesser travels to China for BASF

In 1885, Theodor Sproesser, a director of Badische Anilin- & Sodafabrik, traveled to China to promote the benefits of their dyes. This risky venture turned out to be successful and marked the beginning of BASF's presence in China.

1888

BASF Sales in Scandinavian Countries

In 1888, BASF's commercial records showed the first direct reference to sales in Scandinavian countries. By 1890, Scandinavia accounted for 1.6% of total BASF sales, with product sales in Finland likely through Finnish agents.

1890

Development of Knietsch Sulfuric Acid

In 1890, BASF developed Knietsch sulfuric acid, which played a crucial role in various industrial processes. The production of this acid contributed to the growth and diversification of BASF's chemical products.

1891

Foundation of BASF Application Technology

BASF's application technology is founded in 1891, emphasizing intensive support and advice for customers from the start, leading to a strong customer focus.

1893

BASF exhibit at the Chicago World’s Fair

In 1893, BASF presented an exhibit at the Chicago World’s Fair showcasing artificial organic dyes and the coal-tar dye process. Representatives from the U.S., Mexico, and Brazil participated, displaying the manufacturing site in Ludwigshafen, Germany.

1897

Synthesis of Indigo by BASF

In 1897, BASF achieves a major milestone by successfully synthesizing indigo, a significant development in the field of chemistry.

1900

Formation of German Chemical Industry Cartel

Leaders of the German chemical industry began discussing the merger of most German chemical companies around 1900 to ensure domination over the world, especially in the dye industry.

1901

Indanthrene Blue RS developed

In 1901, a new blue dye called Indanthrene Blue RS was developed, becoming a strong competitor for indigo in the dye industry.

1904

Formation of Bayer and BASF Cartel

In 1904, a cartel was formed including Bayer and BASF, which avoided competition, fixed prices, set up a quota system, and shared profits, playing a significant role in the chemical industry.

1912

Invention of the Haber-Bosch process

Fritz Haber and Carl Bosch, employees of BASF, invented the Haber-Bosch process in 1912. This process revolutionized the production of ammonia and played a significant role in the company's growth.

1913

Synthesis of Ammonia by BASF

In 1913, BASF successfully synthesizes ammonia, showcasing its commitment to innovation and scientific advancement.

1918

First Female Chemist Employed in Ammonia Laboratory at BASF

In 1918, the first female chemist was employed in the ammonia laboratory at BASF, marking a milestone for gender diversity in the field of chemistry.

1919

Relocation of BASF Headquarters

In 1919, the headquarters of BASF moved from Mannheim to Ludwigshafen am Rhein. This relocation marked a significant moment in the company's history.

1924

BASF Secures Raw Materials Transitioning to Petrochemicals

100 years after its foundation, BASF transitions from coal to petrochemicals, ensuring its own raw material supply in both eras.

1925

BASF merges with five German chemical companies, creating IG Farben

In 1925, BASF merged with five other German chemical companies to form IG Farben. This merger was significant in the chemical industry.

1931

Carl Bosch Awarded Nobel Prize in Chemistry

In 1931, Carl Bosch, associated with BASF, receives the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his contributions, particularly in the synthesis of ammonia.

1945

Disestablishment of IG Farben by the Allies

After World War II, IG Farben, the conglomerate BASF was part of, was disestablished by the Allies in 1945 due to its involvement in Nazi Germany's economy and war efforts.

1948-07-28

Explosion at BASF Site

An explosion at a BASF site in Ludwigshafen in July 1948 resulted in the death of 207 people and injuries to 3818. BASF was refounded in 1952 under its name following the efforts of former Nazi Party member Carl Wurster.

1949

Visit of BASF Director Bernhard Timm to Dow Chemical Company

In 1949, BASF Director Bernhard Timm was invited by Dow Chemical Company to tour its sites in Freeport, Texas, and Midland, Michigan. This visit eventually led to the establishment of a joint venture between Dow and BASF.

1952-01-30

Reestablishment of Badische Anilin- & Sodafabrik Aktiengesellschaft

After negotiations following the French military occupation, BASF is reestablished on January 30, 1952. Initially limited to its original factories and product lines, BASF still plays a role in the economic growth of the 1950s.

1957

Foundation of Dow Badische Chemical Company

In 1957, a joint venture between Dow Chemical Company and BASF led to the establishment of Dow Badische Chemical Company. This collaboration was a significant development in the chemical industry.

1958

Formation of Dow Badische Chemical Company

In 1958, BASF and Dow Chemical Company established the Dow Badische Chemical Company in Freeport, Texas. This marked BASF's first manufacturing site outside of Germany since World War II.

1960

Expansion of BASF in North America

During the 1960s, BASF experienced significant growth and expansion in North America, solidifying its position in the region.

1963

Stabilization of Prices and Sales Increase

In 1963, prices for plastics and fertilizers stabilized, leading to a 19 percent increase in sales for BASF in one year.

1964

First Female Authorized Officer Appointed at BASF

In 1964, the first female authorized officer was appointed at BASF, breaking barriers and paving the way for more women to hold leadership positions in the company.

1965

BASF's Expansion to Transnational Company

In 1965, BASF celebrated its 100th anniversary and began its journey towards becoming a transnational company by establishing production sites overseas and increasing investments in the U.S. This move aimed to enhance the company's foothold in industrialized nations and global markets.

1968

BASF Acquires Herbol with Bayer AG

In 1968, BASF, together with Bayer AG, purchased the German coatings company Herbol, leading to further expansion and reorganization.

1969

Acquisition of Wintershall

In 1969, BASF purchased Wintershall, becoming the nation's second largest chemical company in Germany with significant market share in potash and natural gas.

1970

Further Developments of BASF in North America

In the 1970s, BASF continued to evolve and innovate in North America, contributing to its regional history.

1971

Investments Lost in Fibers and Plastics

In 1971, BASF faced losses in large investments in fibers and plastics due to overcapacity, impacting its growth plans.

1973

Adoption of BASF Aktiengesellschaft Name

In 1973, BASF Aktiengesellschaft was adopted as the shortened name of the company. This change reflected the evolving nature of the business.

1980

BASF's Acquisition of Fritzsche Dodge and Olcott, Inc.

In 1980, BASF acquired Fritzsche Dodge and Olcott, Inc., the third largest U.S. producer of flavors and fragrances, as part of its strategy for growth in the United States.

1985

Establishment of Suomen BASF Oy

In 1985, a BASF Finnish subsidiary named Suomen BASF Oy is established.

1986

Formation of BASF Corporation

In 1986, BASF consolidated all North American operations under a new subsidiary called BASF Corporation, highlighting the increasing importance of its U.S. operations.

1989

BASF's Strong Year

In 1989, BASF achieved record sales and net income. However, sales and net income declined in the following years due to various factors such as industry downturns, economic recession, and policy reforms.

1990-10-25

BASF Acquires Site in Schwarzheide, Eastern Germany

Following German reunification in 1990, BASF acquired a site in Schwarzheide, Eastern Germany, expanding its operations.

1991

Acquisition of AGFA-Gevaert's Magnetic Tape Operations

In 1991, BASF acquired AGFA-Gevaert's magnetic tape operations to strengthen its consumer products area. This acquisition aimed to diversify BASF's business portfolio.

1992-12-16

Gas Deal Provides Hope for Improving Results at BASF

An article in Chemical Week discusses how a gas deal is seen as a positive step for BASF in managing the business cycle and improving its results.

1993-03-31

Domestic Pressures on German Chemical Firms

Chemical Week highlights the increasing pressures faced by German chemical firms, including BASF, due to domestic factors.

1994

Opening of a new steam cracker in Antwerp

In 1994, BASF's new steam cracker in Antwerp became operational after an investment of DM1.5 billion, the largest capital expenditure in BASF's history.

1995-11

BASF: Change, Focus, Speed

A supplement to ECN-European Chemical News discusses BASF's approach of change, focus, and speed in its operations and strategies.

1996-09-23

BASF Claims Top Spot Among Investors in Korea

Chemical Marketing Reporter highlights BASF's achievement of being the leading investor in Korea, showcasing the company's strong presence and investments in the Korean market.

1996-10-07

BASF Invests in Chinese Future

ECN-European Chemical News reports on BASF's investment in China, indicating the company's strategic focus on expanding its presence in the Chinese market.

1996-11-18

BASF Targets Acquisitions That Cut Cycles

Chemical Market Reporter discusses BASF's strategy of targeting acquisitions that help in reducing business cycles, aiming to structure its European operations similar to those in the US.

1997

Expansion and restructuring of BASF

By 1997, BASF operated five main sectors and had ambitious plans for acquisitions and global expansion. The company aimed to strengthen its presence outside Europe and streamline its structure for future growth, solidifying its position as one of the leading chemical companies globally.

1998

Formation of Business Centre Nordic

In 1998, the Business Centre Nordic was created, consisting of Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway.

1999

AkzoNobel Takes Over BASF's European Coatings Business

In 1999, AkzoNobel acquired BASF's European coatings business, marking a significant change in the industry landscape.

2000

BASF's Sustainable Business Strategy at the Turn of the Millennium

In the year 2000, BASF focused on global presence, core business areas, and optimizing its product portfolio. This marked the beginning of sustainability as a key business strategy for the company.

2001

Formation of Business Centre Nordic/Baltic

The Business Centre Nordic/Baltic was established in 2001, encompassing the Nordic and Baltic countries.

2002

Launch of new production site in Hamina by BASF Oy

In 2002, BASF Oy inaugurated a new production site in Hamina dedicated to the manufacturing of polymer dispersions.

2004

BASF signs Gazprom Nord Stream-Yuzhno-Russkoye deal

In 2004, with the help of then German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, BASF's Jürgen Hambrecht signed the Gazprom Nord Stream-Yuzhno-Russkoye deal with a 49-51 structure, different from the older 50-50 split of projects like BP's TNK-BP.

2006-07-01

Acquisition of Johnson Polymer

BASF completed the acquisition of Johnson Polymer on 1 July 2006 for $470 million, enhancing its portfolio of resins for the coatings and paints industry.

2007

Name Change of Engelhard Pigments Oy to BASF Minerals Oy

In 2007, Engelhard Pigments Oy changed its name to BASF Minerals Oy.

2008-12-19

Acquisition of Whitmire Micro-Gen and Sorex Ltd

On 19 December 2008, BASF acquired U.S.-based Whitmire Micro-Gen and U.K.-based Sorex Ltd, strengthening its presence in professional pest management products.

2009-04-09

BASF acquires Ciba Holding AG

BASF successfully acquires Ciba Holding AG on April 9th.

2010-10

BASF sells its starch business in Europe to Chemigate Oy

BASF divests its starch business in Europe to Chemigate Oy, a company established by former managers of the starch business in Finland.

2010-12

Acquisition of Cognis

In December 2010, BASF completed the acquisition of Cognis.

2011

BASF engages in International Year of Chemistry (IYC)

BASF participates in the International Year of Chemistry (IYC) to promote interest in science among young people. In Finland, BASF sponsors ChemistryLab Gadolin and donates Science Dictionaries to schools.

2012

BASF expands to Podolsk, Russia

In 2012, BASF expanded its operations to Podolsk, Russia.

2013

BASF expands to Kazan, Russia

In 2013, BASF expanded its operations to Kazan, Russia.

2014

Authorization of BASF Starch Potato in the USA

In 2014, BASF's Starch Potato, a genetically modified variety with reduced amylose, was authorized for use in the United States, marking a significant milestone in biotechnology and agriculture.

2015-05

Sale of pharmaceutical ingredients business to Siegfried Holding

In May 2015, BASF agreed to sell parts of its pharmaceutical ingredients business to Swiss drug manufacturer Siegfried Holding for €270 million.

2015-12

BASF SE acquires Chemetall GmbH

In December 2015, BASF SE acquired Chemetall GmbH, including Chemetall AB. This acquisition marked a significant development in the chemical industry.

2016-01

Formation of Country Cluster Nordic/Baltic within BASF

In January 2016, BASF underwent a reorganization in Europe leading to the establishment of the Country Cluster Nordic/Baltic. Mark Meier was appointed as the Managing Director for this newly formed cluster.

2017-10

Acquisition of seed and herbicide businesses from Bayer

In October 2017, BASF announced the acquisition of seed and herbicide businesses from Bayer for €5.9 billion ($7 billion).

2018-11

BASF Market Capitalization in November 2018

In November 2018, BASF's shares traded at over €69 per share, with a market capitalization valued at €63.7 billion.

2019-08

BASF sells global pigments business to DIC

In August 2019, BASF agreed to sell its global pigments business to Japanese fine chemical company DIC for €1.15 billion ($1.28 billion) on a cash and debt-free basis.

2019-09

BASF sells ultrafiltration membrane business to DuPont

In September 2019, BASF signed an agreement with DuPont Safety & Construction to sell its ultrafiltration membrane business, Inge GmbH, as it fits better with DuPont's business strategy.

2019-10

BASF Operating Income Drop in October 2019

In October 2019, BASF reported a 24% drop in operating income for July to September, along with a decrease in EBIT earnings of €1.1 billion ($1.2 billion), attributed to factors like the US-China trade war and uncertainties related to Brexit.

2019-11

US$10 billion investment project in Zhanjiang

In November 2019, BASF announced a US$10 billion investment project in Zhanjiang for the production of engineering plastics and TPU, making it the third-largest BASF site worldwide.

2020-01-27

First Lawsuit on Dicamba-related Products

On January 27, 2020, the first-ever lawsuit regarding Dicamba-based herbicides was initiated in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. A peach farmer accused the herbicides of causing significant damage to his crops and trees.

2020-02-14

Jury Ruling Against BASF and Bayer

On February 14, 2020, the jury in the lawsuit ruled against BASF and Bayer, the co-defendants who had acquired Monsanto. The ruling favored the peach grower, Bader Farms owner Bill Bader, with BASF and Bayer ordered to pay $15 million in damages.

2020-02-15

Additional Punitive Damages on Monsanto and BASF

On February 15, 2020, Monsanto and BASF were ordered to pay an extra $250 million in punitive damages related to the lawsuit on Dicamba-based herbicides.

2022

BASF ranked as one of the top polluters in the US

In 2022, BASF was ranked as the #2 largest polluter of air and #14 largest polluter of water in the US, according to the 'Top 100 Polluters Indexes' published by the University of Massachusetts, Amherst's 'Political Economy Research Institute' (PERI).

2023-02

BASF plans to close ammonia factory in Ludwigshafen

In February 2023, BASF announced plans to close one of its two ammonia factories at its site in Ludwigshafen to cut costs due to high energy costs, leading to increased production in China and the loss of 2,600 jobs.

2023-04

BASF's CEO emphasizes importance of Chinese revenue

As of April 2023, BASF had 30 production facilities in China, and CEO Martin Brudermüller highlighted the significance of Chinese revenue to grow the European business amidst high energy costs and environmental regulations.

2023-09

BASF breaks ground on Zhanjiang syngas plant

In September 2023, BASF broke ground on its Zhanjiang syngas plant in China, set to be commissioned by 2025.

2023-11

BASF closes $5bn investment deal in China

In November 2023, BASF closed a $5bn 15-year investment deal in China with Chinese banks.

2024

Data Protection at BASF SE

In 2024, BASF SE implemented data protection measures to safeguard sensitive information.

2102

10 years of paper chemicals production in Hamina

In 2102, the production of paper chemicals in Hamina reached a milestone of 10 years. This achievement signified a decade of successful operations in the industry.

End of the Timeline
BASF