Omya Performance Polymer Distribution has been appointed by SK Chemicals as its distribution partner for SkypeL TPE-E thermoplastic polyester elastomers in European markets, effective July 1, 2026. The new agreement establishes a strategic partnership between the two companies and is intended to support a coordinated market introduction of this material portfolio in Europe. Under the agreement, Omya Performance Polymer Distribution will be responsible for pan-European sales, technical support and application development capabilities for customers in the automotive, electrical and electronics, wire and cable, consumer goods and other end-use sectors.
The SkypeL TPE-E portfolio, owned by SK Chemicals, combines the flexibility of rubber with the properties of engineering plastics. According to the information provided by the companies, the material offers high mechanical performance, thermal stability and processing versatility. For this reason, it is intended for demanding applications in which long-term service performance and reliability are important. The partnership leverages Omya Performance Polymer Distribution’s many years of experience in the TPE segment, including the legacy of Distrupol in Northern Europe. As stated, the established European sales organization, technical resources and logistics infrastructure are expected to enable efficient market development and long-term growth in the region.
Carsten Harms, CEO of Omya Performance Polymer Distribution, said: "Building on our partnership with SK Chemicals in North America, this expansion into Europe marks an important step in strengthening our high-performance elastomer offering. SkypeL TPE-E is an important addition and a critical capability in our now largely complete global TPE portfolio, enabling us to better support customers with a broader, more integrated offering across regions."
Steve Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Green Materials at SK Chemicals, added: "We are very pleased to partner with Omya Performance Polymer Distribution to expand the reach of SkypeL TPE-E across European markets. Europe represents a highly advanced market with stringent technical standards and quality requirements, where SkypeL will demonstrate its competitiveness based on its excellent durability and design flexibility. SK Chemicals will continue to expand its global production capabilities for SkypeL and, together with Omya, accelerate business growth in Europe by ensuring reliable supply and strong technical support."
Scope of cooperation in the European market
The companies also said that focused commercial activities, a customer engagement program and joint marketing activities are planned. The aim is to establish SkypeL TPE-E as a leading solution in the European market.
Steve Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Green Materials at SK Chemicals | Carsten Harms, CEO of Omya Performance Polymer Distribution
