29-04-2021

Unicat Catalyst Acquires Magma Group

Unicat Catalyst Technologies, a portfolio company of White Deer Energy, has announced the acquisition of Jemmtec Limited, dba Magma Group. Magma is a UK-based leader in ceramics and catalyst manufacturing and related services. Unicat, headquartered in Alvin, TX, is a global supplier of heterogeneous catalyst products and technical services. Together, the combined businesses will offer vertically-integrated global manufacturing and distribution of innovative catalyst and ceramics products and services for the refinery, syngas, chemical, steel, agriculture, and green energy industries. Mark Stuckey, Magma’s Chief Executive Officer and founder, will oversee the enlarged business, with Mani Erfan, co-founder of Unicat, staying on as the Chief Technical Officer.

“Magma’s pioneering catalyst technology delivers unparalleled energy efficiency and production yield benefits to our customers around the world,” said Mr. Erfan. “This transaction will expand on our existing partnership by bringing complementary products and manufacturing capability into one portfolio.”

“Unicat is an expert in developing and distributing innovative catalyst solutions with high-tech technical support,” said Mr. Stuckey. “I am excited to partner with the Unicat team to realize the many opportunities this combination will offer to both customers and employees.”

White Deer invested additional capital in Unicat to support the acquisition. The fund has a long history of partnering with entrepreneur owners and their management teams to support the growth of their businesses. Mr. Stuckey will roll a portion of his ownership stake, aligning his commitment to the future of the combined business.

Jim Meneely, Managing Partner at White Deer, commented, “Mark and his team have built an incredible company with a strong brand resulting in impressive growth over the last decade. We look forward to partnering with Mark and the Magma team in supporting the Company’s future growth as it continues to innovate and supply to its loyal customer base.”

Meghan Leggett, Principal at White Deer, added, “Magma is a transformative acquisition for Unicat, and we believe by combining Magma’s manufacturing technology with Unicat’s product portfolio and sales network we will support growth in industrial activities across the U.S. and internationally.”

White Deer was advised by Locke Lord LLP and Alvarez and Marsal LLC. Magma was advised by Squire Patton Boggs and BDO.