What have been the major developments at Quimisa since 2017?

Quimisa is focused on the development, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of chemical products for customers both in Brazil and internationally. The company has a specialized lab for developments of enzymatic detergents that helps our customers have access to more ready-to-use products. We have also developed a new textile line that includes all the products to meet our customers’ needs. The company has a focus on animal nutrition, and our presence in this segment is particularly strong in the south of Brazil. We offer a range of products, such as chemicals, textile detergents, stabilizers, wood processing and automotive solutions, water treatment solutions and others.

Despite the challenging economic and political situation in Brazil, the company managed to grow in 2017 and 2018. We have branches at strategic points in the south and southeast of Brazil, and we make an effort to build relationships with the right customers.

The general sentiment is that the new government will bring more stability to Brazil and create more investment opportunities. How has Quimisa experienced the change in government?

To date, Brazil is still below the expected initial development, but in our opinion the change of government has been good for business across the country. Much depends on pension reform, which is key for the economy of the country, and we expect these reforms to begin in June 2019.

Which of the market segments has been driving demand and growth over the last two years for the company?

Approximately 80% of Quimisa’s business is in commodities. The company has developed a strong relationship with this sector, and we see significant opportunity in the healthcare and animal nutrition markets as well, which we treat as one segment – the life sciences. We have recognized that all of our growing markets are related to life, such as life sciences, water treatment and feed and food grades. There is still more development to be done in these segments, and demand from these markets is continuously increasing.

Can you elaborate on Quimisa’s logistics inventory and capabilities?

Through our vehicular efficient structure, Quimlog, we are able to accomdodate the logistical challenges of transporting chemical products. We have the capacity to transport corrosive, flammable, oxidising, toxic and food materials in a safe and responsible way. Quimilog is ISO 9001 and SASSMAQ certified, which reflects our commitment to responsibility, quality and safety. The company has 90 vehicles and trained drivers, including trucks, flatbeds and the Super Bitrens, a differential that optimizes shipping. These capabilities provide Quimisa with flexibility and a signifcant competitive advantage in the market.

Can you provide an overview of Quimisa’s infrastructure?

Quimisa’s headquarters is in Brusque, Santa Catarina, Brazil, and is a facility of 160,000 square meters. The company has three other branches spread across the country, as well as an office in Sao Paulo. In the South of Brazil, we have a facility in Sapucaia do Sul, which also has its own logistical capabilities and holds inventory of our most important products. We also have inventory facilities in Nova Esperança, State of Parana, and in Itú in the southeastern part of the country. In terms of our strategic locations, we are able to serve other countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and others. Moving forward, we aim to expand our presence to more countries in Latin America and internationally.

Quimisa uses technology to develop sustainable solutions and environmentally friendly products. Can you elaborate on the company’s efforts to incorporate sustainability into its offering?

Sustainability is a focus area for Quimisa. One of our most important segments is the enzyme segment, and we are developing new applications for this product. Enzymes are not only applicable in the life sciences industry, but also in textiles and water treatment solutions. By developing sustainable technologies using enzymes, we can reduce water consumption needs through the preservation of water. We can also apply our technologies so as to increase and maintain shelf life for products such as grains. Our sustainable solutions are either developed in-house or in collaboration with clients, depending on the speed of development and costs.

What is Quimisa’s vision for the future, and do you have a final message for our readership?

Quimisa believes that Brazil holds significant opportunities for the company moving forward. The country has significant needs that we are in a position to meet. Our aim is to relocate the application of the same products into various industries. Our vision is to continue our two-digit growth rate.

Quimisa offers quality products at a very competitive price. We are reliable in our supply and support our customers’ needs through development and technology. Our main quality is that we are there for our customers when they need us.