Elementis plc announced the launch of a direct-sales operation in Japan in a joint venture with Inabata KK.

Elementis plc, London, announced the launch of a direct-sales operation in Japan in a joint venture with Inabata KK, a major Japanese chemicals and plastics marketer. Elementis said it will hold a 70% interest in the venture company, which will replace sales organizations operated individually by companies in the Elementis group. The company said the new sales operation will result in “more efficient and responsive service.”