Global New Material International Holdings Ltd. (GNMI) has finalized its €665 million acquisition of Merck’s Surface Solutions business, which now continues under the new brand name Susonity. The deal, which closed on July 31, 2025, represents the largest cross-border transaction in China’s pearlescent materials sector and accelerates GNMI’s transformation into a global surface performance materials provider.

SUSONITY becomes part of GNMI Group. Credit: GNMI

Susonity, headquartered in Gernsheim, Germany, is recognized as a market leader in premium effect pigments and active ingredients for automotive, cosmetic and industrial applications. With around 1,100 employees and major production hubs in Germany, Japan and the United States, the company adds significant global scale and technical expertise to GNMI’s existing platform.

“This strategic acquisition marks a major milestone in our global expansion,” said Ertian Su, Chairman and CEO of GNMI and now CEO of Susonity. “Susonity will further extend our reach and strengthen our portfolio from premium, high-end pigments to large-scale, technology-driven solutions. Together, we are strongly positioned to drive growth in a dynamic and fast-evolving market.”

GNMI, already one of the world’s largest pearlescent pigment producers, will operate Susonity as an independent brand, with its headquarters remaining in Germany. The combined business plans to establish regional headquarters in EMEA, North America and Asia Pacific, reinforcing its international footprint and customer support network.

The integration is expected to generate operational synergies and broaden GNMI’s penetration into high-end segments such as automotive coatings and luxury cosmetics. Susonity’s tagline, Beyond effects. Infinite possibilities., reflects its continued commitment to innovation, reliability, and collaborative development.

Ertian Su Chairman of Global New Material International (right) with Belén Garijo Chair of the Executive Board and CEO of Merck (middle) and Kai Beckmann Member. Credit: GNMI 

As part of the transaction, more than 600 Germany-based employees were transferred to GNMI. The company has guaranteed the future of the Gernsheim site and the employment of staff in Germany through 2032. Additionally, GNMI and Merck entered into supply and service agreements to ensure a seamless transition.

Merck executives noted that the divestiture supports the company’s ongoing focus on technology-driven businesses, including healthcare, life science and electronics. “With this closure, we are sharpening our portfolio and ensuring long-term innovation-driven growth,” said Belén Garijo, Chair of Merck’s Executive Board.

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