Change in Asian Leadership
After more than 30 years with Messer – including 13 years as CEO of Messer in China and three years as a member of Messer’s Executive Board in his role as COO Asia – Werner Hickel will retire upon the expiration of his contract on November 15, 2026.

Under his leadership, Messer’s business in China became a cornerstone of the company’s global success. At the same time, he drove strategic expansion into Southeast Asia, successfully expanded Messer’s presence, and tapped into new growth opportunities throughout the region.

“The enduring success of Werner Hickel’s work is reflected not only in the strong business performance but also in the resilient organizational and leadership culture he helped shape. Werner’s contributions have had a lasting impact on our company, and his legacy will continue to shape our future in Asia,” emphasizes Stefan Messer, shareholder and Chairman of the Supervisory Board.

Marc Wachter, who has served as CEO of Messer China since July 2024, assumed responsibility for the Asian business effective August 1, 2026. He will continue to serve as CEO of Messer China and, in his new role as COO Asia, will report directly to CEO Peter Mohnen. A particular focus of his work will be on strengthening Messer’s long-term position in the region and continuing to capitalize on its exceptional growth potential. Marc Wachter began his career at Messer more than 20 years ago and has many years of leadership experience, both in various roles as managing director of Messer subsidiaries and as a regional manager.

Initially, the CarbonBridge Joint Venture is expected to achieve a maximum handling capacity of approximately 2.3 million metric tons per year—with plans to increase this to about 4 million metric tons annually in the future. Together, Ambrian Energy and Messer are paving the way for a sustainable future by combining state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology to combat industrial CO₂ emissions.

A Milestone for Germany’s Climate Goals
CarbonBridge will serve as a versatile provider of CO₂ logistics solutions—including temporary storage, transport, and loading. These represent a significant milestone in Germany’s efforts to combat climate change and transition to a sustainable economy.

The CO₂ export terminal was developed to meet the urgent need for a functional logistics chain for captured carbon dioxide from CO₂-intensive industries, such as the cement, glass and steel industries, as well as waste incineration. Due to the high volumes of CO2 that are inevitably generated in their production processes, these industries require technical and logistical decarbonization strategies. In the future, CarbonBridge will provide a reliable and scalable solution for transporting recovered CO₂ from the emitter to the sink, where the CO₂ will be permanently stored. This will enable CO₂-intensive industries to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency. As a result, CarbonBridge plays a central role in supporting Germany’s transition to a climate-neutral future.

“We are very pleased with the antitrust approval for CarbonBridge, a project that underscores our commitment to implementing Carbon Capture Utilization & Storage (CCUS) in Germany—covering the entire value chain from the CO₂ source to the sink. In most projects, the logistics involved in transporting CO₂ to the final storage site are the biggest challenge. With CarbonBridge, we aim to offer a flexible solution,” says Ralph Spring, Senior Manager Commercials CCUS, Messer SE & Co. KGaA.

Strategic Partnership for Sustainability
Ambrian Energy and Messer are among the leading companies in their respective industries and combine decades of expertise in the fields of energy logistics and CO₂ recovery, respectively. The CarbonBridge export terminal is intended to serve as a flagship project to advance CO₂ capture, including transport and storage, in Europe—particularly in Germany—and to offer CO₂-intensive industries a reliable export option for captured carbon dioxide.

Daniel Pätzold, Managing Director of Ambrian Energy GmbH, adds: “Industrial companies rely on a reliable export infrastructure for captured CO₂ to achieve decarbonization. This is precisely the gap we aim to close with CarbonBridge. The European Commission’s approval is therefore not only an important step for our project but also a strong signal for the development of a competitive carbon capture and storage infrastructure in Germany.”

Ambrian Energy is contributing a strategically located, three-hectare property in Bremen, Germany, to the project. This site offers logistical advantages, including an existing rail connection for CO₂ transport by train and a port berth capable of accommodating ships with a capacity of up to 30,000 metric tons. These features will facilitate the seamless onward transport of the captured CO₂ to geological storage sites in the North Sea. Messer brings its decades of expertise in CO₂ capture and processing to the partnership, underscoring its commitment to “ZeCarb,” the company’s innovative “Carbon Capture as a Service” solution. This offering enables industrial emitters to have Messer and its partners handle the entire process, from CO₂ capture to final storage in a sink.

This expansion will add 900 metric tons per day of liquid gas capacity, thereby increasing Messer’s total production capacity in Northern Vietnam to 2,000 metric tons per day. It will also significantly strengthen the supply of liquid nitrogen to support the region’s rapidly growing electronics and semiconductor industries. 

The nitrogen liquefier is expected to commence operations mid-2027, followed by the ASU by the end of 2027. 

Through continued foreign direct investments and the expansion of major technology manufacturers, Northern Vietnam is reinforcing its position as a strategic manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia. This additional capacity will enable Messer to meet the needs of existing customers and drive future growth projects across the region. 

“This strategic investment underscores Messer’s commitment to sustainable, long-term growth in Southeast Asia, and will reinforce our position as a leading industrial gases supplier in Vietnam. For nearly three decades, we have partnered with local industries and consistently invested in our facilities to support the country’s economic growth and industrial development.” said Peter Mohnen, CEO of Messer. 

"Vietnam remains one of the most promising industrial markets in Southeast Asia and Messer is confident in the country’s economic potential and manufacturing future," said Adrien Rameaux, Country Manager of Messer in Vietnam. "By expanding the production capacity at our existing facilities, we will strengthen our ability to serve customers in high-growth sectors and continue to be a reliable partner." 

Doctors in Germany are legally required to earn at least 250 recognized continuing education credits within a five-year period. To support them in this effort, Messer has developed free e-learning courses that provide practical knowledge and promote the safe handling of medical gases and gas-based therapeutic procedures.

Currently, three certified online training courses are available for healthcare professionals in the DACH region. The continuing education offerings cover a broad spectrum: In addition to the existing course on “Pain Management and Sedation in Pediatric Practice,” Messer has now released two additional e-learning courses — one on “Analgesia in Emergency Medicine,” which will be available through the end of 2026, and one on “Sedation in Pediatric Dentistry,” which will be available through early 2027. All training courses are offered exclusively in German. All courses are CME-certified and are conducted in collaboration with MedLearning AG.

A reliable partner
Through the continuous expansion of its comprehensive portfolio of medical gases, supply systems, services, and continuing education programs, Messer underscores its commitment to being a trusted solutions provider in the healthcare sector.

The provision of high-quality gases, customized solutions, and comprehensive services from a single source ensures a high level of supply reliability and efficiency in medical facilities. Decades of experience in the production and application of medical gases, as well as a team of skilled experts, underscore this commitment.

Learn more and register now
Physicians who wish to earn continuing education credits and acquire practical knowledge can learn more about Messer’s free training programs and register directly.

Lhyfe (EURONEXT: LHYFE) – one of the world's pioneers in the production of green and renewable hydrogen for the decarbonization of industry and mobility – announces the signing of a major commercial, industrial and financial partnership with Messer, the world's largest privately-owned specialist in industrial, medical, electronic and specialty gases. Messer is taking a 30 percent stake in four of Lhyfe’s hydrogen production sites in France and Germany. Moreover, the two partners will sign a 10-year contract on the supply of renewable hydrogen. 

With that single transaction, Messer will not only become a long-term customer for Lhyfe, but also a reference industrial partner and an investor in the assets' equity. It gives concrete form to the priorities announced by Lhyfe — commercial growth through indirect sales, revenue visibility and the demonstration of value created by its portfolio of sites — and marks Lhyfe's first capital rotation. The partnership brings together two highly complementary organizations. Messer contributes decades of expertise in hydrogen technologies, applications, logistics and gas distribution, while Lhyfe has established itself as a leading developer and operator of renewable hydrogen production assets. 

A structuring partnership built around three levers 

The 10-year supply agreement is backed by three of Lhyfe's sites in France and one in Germany. Messer commits to a minimum volume starting in 2026, which is expected to gradually increase and reach several hundred tons per year. Beyond this commitment, Messer aims to purchase half of the output of the three French sites concerned. By becoming a 30 percent shareholder in the company holding these four sites, Messer validates their industrial quality, commercial positioning and the value-creation potential of the assets developed by Lhyfe. Messer will bring its expertise in industrial gases, particularly in safety, operations, logistics, gas handling, customer relations and multi-gas distribution. This partnership is expected to contribute to the performance, resilience and commercial ramp-up of the sites concerned. 
Through this agreement, Messer secures long-term access to renewable hydrogen, including RFNBO-certified hydrogen, sourced from multiple production sites in France and Germany. By integrating this hydrogen into its multi-gas offering, Messer will be able to meet the decarbonization needs of both its existing industrial customers and new clients. 
Beyond its commercial dimension, this partnership reflects a convergent view of the renewable hydrogen market between Lhyfe and Messer, including regarding its development potential over the medium to long term. 

For Lhyfe: a partnership that strengthens the Group's financial profile 

This partnership strengthens the financial profile through more visible and recurring cash flows resulting from the long-term contract and the minimum purchase commitment as well as a strengthening of the Group's financial position through the sale of a 30 percent stake in the company holding the four production sites. Lhyfe will continue to consolidate this company on a full consolidation basis and strengthen capacity to focus resources on the most advanced, commercially secured and value-creating projects. 
With this transaction, Lhyfe takes a further step in its model as a developer and operator of renewable hydrogen assets. Having completed the permitting, financing, construction and commissioning phases, the Group demonstrates its ability to crystallize the value of its assets through a first capital rotation, while retaining majority exposure to their growth potential and remaining the exclusive operator of these sites — as such, operation and management services continue to be invoiced by Lhyfe to the companies holding these assets. 

Completion of the transaction is expected in the coming months and remains subject to lenders' consent, in accordance with in-place financing documentation. 

Peter Mohnen, CEO of Messer SE & Co. KGaA:
“This agreement marks a major milestone for Messer and Lhyfe and underlines our long-term commitment to enabling the hydrogen economy. By securing access to substantial volumes of renewable hydrogen, we are strengthening our ability to support the decarbonization ambitions of our customers and prospective customers across a wide range of industries. Demand for renewable hydrogen continues to increase, and the geographically diversified production footprint of these sites allows us to optimize supply chains, shorten transport distances and reduce transport-related emissions. At Messer, we see it as our responsibility to actively contribute to addressing the challenges of our time, and this partnership is an important step toward building a more resilient, competitive and decarbonized industrial future.” 

Matthieu Guesné, founder and CEO of Lhyfe: 
“The decision of a worldwide leading industrial gases company such as Messer, with more than over 125 years of experience, to join us sends a strong signal to the entire industry. It confirms both the strength of our business model and the accelerating adoption of renewable hydrogen across industrial sectors. Together with Messer, already a Lhyfe customer for several years, we share the conviction that renewable hydrogen is set to become one of the cornerstones of the new industrial energy mix. This agreement gives us the means to strengthen Lhyfe’s financial solidity, to pursue our ambition and to develop increasingly transformative and large-scale projects, helping to accelerate Europe’s decarbonization.” 

About Lhyfe 
Lhyfe is a European group devoted to energy transition, and a producer and supplier of green and renewable hydrogen. Through its production sites and portfolio of projects, it seeks to provide access to green and renewable hydrogen in industrial quantities, fostering a virtuous energy model that both decarbonizes entire sectors of industry and transport and enhances regional energy sovereignty. 
In 2021, Lhyfe inaugurated the first industrial-scale green hydrogen production plant in the world to be interconnected with a wind farm. In 2022, it inaugurated the first offshore green hydrogen production pilot platform in the world. Since then, Lhyfe has installed four other production sites and has several sites under construction or extension across Europe. In September 2025, Lhyfe became Europe’s largest producer of bulk RFNBO hydrogen from the electrolysis of water. 
Lhyfe is represented in 11 European countries and had 188 staff at the end of December 2025. The company is listed on the Euronext market in Paris (ISIN: FR0014009YQ1 – LHYFE). For more information go to Lhyfe.com.
 

WKS Group is a privately owned leading local player in industrial gases consisting of six companies, 195 employees, with operations in Singapore and south Malaysia. This strategic acquisition marks a significant step into the largest industrial gases market in SEA region, unlocking new growth opportunities and synergies across the region.

The WKS Group boasts a strong local reputation and a diversified portfolio of businesses, including packaged gases filling stations, dissolved acetylene plants and a distribution network of welding equipment and consumables, cylinder gas depots and specialized services for the marine and offshore industry.

Wipco Industrial Sdn Bhd is a privately owned industrial gases company established in 2000, based in Ipoh, Perak, with operations spanning northern Peninsular Malaysia. The company operates a cylinder filling station and a modern PLC-controlled dissolved acetylene (DA) production plant. With an established customer base serving the manufacturing, semiconductor, and electronics sectors, Wipco provides Messer with an immediate operational platform in one of Malaysia’s most dynamic industrial corridors — anchored by Penang’s world-class semiconductor fabrication and advanced manufacturing ecosystem.

Kobewel Kogyo Gases Sdn Bhd is a privately owned packaged gases company established in 2007, operating from a modern facility in Sepang, Selangor. The company serves a diversified industrial customer base with a high proportion of direct end-user relationships. The signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Kobewel strengthens Messer’s position in the central region and enables the strategic consolidation of Messer’s existing Kuala Lumpur operations with Kobewel’s Sepang facility, creating a unified and more efficient central hub.

Unlocking Synergies and strengthening local expertise

The acquisition of WKS Group, Wipco and Kobewel aligns with Messer’s strategic vision to expand its footprint in the SEA region, leveraging the strong growth potential of Singapore and Malaysia’s industrial gases markets. The strong local reputation and established customer relationships of these companies will enhance Messer’s ability to deliver tailored solutions to industries such as electronics, medical, and marine/offshore. The addition of WKS Group’s expertise in welding equipment distribution and marine services further diversifies Messer’s offerings, ensuring comprehensive support for customers’ evolving needs.

A Commitment to Excellence

“This acquisition represents a milestone in our journey to become a leading player in the SEA industrial gases market,” said Peter Mohnen, CEO. “By combining WKS Group, Wipco and Kobewel’s local expertise with our global capabilities, we are well-positioned to deliver innovative solutions and drive sustainable growth in Singapore, Malaysia, and beyond.”

As planned, Bernd Eulitz, Deputy CEO since February 2022 and CEO of Messer since April 2023, will retire upon the expiration of his term. Under his leadership, key milestones were achieved, including the acquisition of the shares in Messer Americas from CVC, the recruitment of the global long-term investor, GIC, as a minority shareholder, and key refinancing measures. Bernd was instrumental in bringing the global Messer teams together operating as one global team with harmonized governance structures.

“After an intense and highly rewarding period at Messer, and after a long, global executive career, the time has come for me to step down from this responsibility and focus on my family and personal pursuits. I have thoroughly enjoyed developing this company globally during such a pivotal phase. Together with an outstanding team, especially in close collaboration with the Executive Management Board and Supervisory Board Chairman Stefan Messer, I am proud of what we have accomplished. I am confident that Messer is excellently positioned to continue its successful path,” said Bernd Eulitz.

“Bernd Eulitz has made a significant contribution to Messer and has our deepest appreciation. He has guided Messer through a transformative phase and turbulent macroeconomic environment with great clarity, personal integrity, and a compelling global vision. He strengthened the focus on new growth opportunities and established partnerships in key markets. On behalf of the shareholders and the Supervisory Board, I thank him for his leadership and for exemplifying Messer’s values,” said Stefan Messer, Chairman of the Supervisory Board.

Peter Mohnen to Become New CEO

Effective July 1^st, 2026, Peter Mohnen will assume the role of CEO of the world’s largest privately held industrial gas company. Having recently been appointed to Messer’s Supervisory Board, he will resign from this position upon taking office as CEO. Peter Mohnen brings more than 30 years of international leadership experience at global industrial companies, most recently serving as CEO of automation specialist KUKA from 2018 to 2025.

“Peter Mohnen will preserve and promote what has made Messer strong as a family-owned company. Simultaneously, he will drive the sustainable development of the global organization - in close coordination with the owner family. Our new CEO embodies what matters to us: respecting people in their diversity, building on their strengths, and creating an environment where trust drives motivation, so that we can continue to be an important and reliable partner for our customers. We are very much looking forward to working together,” said Stefan Messer.

“I am honored to take on responsibility for a company built over generations on reliability, customer focus, and long-term thinking. My goal is to carry on this legacy while also exploring new opportunities. I assume this role with great respect for Messer’s history and strong confidence in its future,” said Peter Mohnen.

Change in European Leadership

After the successful integration of the three European regions, Virginia Esly, member of the Executive Management Board and COO Europe, will leave the company as of June 30^th, 2026, at her own request. Over the past years, she has shaped the European business into a high-performing, more profitable, and future-ready organization.

Under her leadership, the European region recorded strong business performance with revenues of approximately 1.3 billion euros and a significant EBITDA increase. With a clear focus, she has significantly advanced safety culture, process excellence, and digital transformation and thereby sustainably strengthened the European companies in the long term.

Stefan Messer: “On behalf of the Supervisory Board and the entire Messer team, I would like to thank Virginia for her valuable contribution and commitment. Under her direction the European business has become more integrated and profitable. We wish her all the best for her future career.”

Virginia Esly: “I would like to thank Messer’s Supervisory and Executive Management Board, all my colleagues and our customers and business partners, for their excellent and trusting collaboration. It has been a privilege to work with such talented teams. Together, we have strengthened Messer’s position in Europe and made it even more resilient. I am convinced that Messer is very well prepared for the future.”

Matthias Thiele, who has been Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Messer since January 2026, will assume responsibility for the European business as COO Europe effective July 1^st, 2026. In this role, he will report directly to CEO Peter Mohnen. His focus will be on driving customer-centric growth and further strengthening the country organizations. Matthias Thiele has been with Messer for more than 40 years and brings extensive leadership experience, including numerous roles as Managing Director of Messer companies since 2002.

Family-Owned Company with Clear Values

With its new leadership structure, Messer reaffirms its commitment to remaining an independent, family-owned company guided by long-term thinking, reliability and strong values. “Trust, integrity, responsibility, and entrepreneurial spirit remain the cornerstones of our governance. Messer is financially sound, organizationally strong, and deeply rooted in its identity as a family-owned business. On this basis, we are taking the next step,” said Stefan Messer.

“Sustainability at Messer is not a standalone initiative—it is integral to how we operate, manage risks, and create long‑term value. This report highlights our progress on GHG emissions reduction, Messer’s safety and people‑oriented culture, and responsible business practices across our operations and value chain. It also reflects our continued progress in aligning our reporting with evolving regulatory and stakeholder expectations.” said Patricia Hargil, Chief Sustainability Officer of Messer. 

The 2025 Sustainability Report is available for download at https://sustainability.messergroup.com/messer-sustainability-report-2025. 
 

Water treatment with pure oxygen 

In wastewater treatment plants, the efficiency of biological stages is highly dependent on the ambient temperature, because warmer temperatures reduce the solubility of oxygen in water. The resulting reduction in the aeration system’s oxygen injection reduces, in turn, the efficiency of contaminant degradation. Moreover, the volume of wastewater streams in industrial processes, such as those in paper mills, is often subject to extreme swings. An increase in production can also rapidly push existing capacities to their limits. Messer offers several proven technical solutions under the brand BIOX^® to handle peak loads or rapid capacity expansion. They inject additional pure oxygen into the biological stage – oxygen that is optimally distributed in the form of microbubbles by hose mats or injectors. This pure oxygen improves living conditions for the bacteria, which in turn raises their contaminant degradation performance. And that shortens throughput times and reduces foaming and odors. The installation is simple and also possible during normal operation. 

Ozonation for the fourth treatment stage 

In the fourth treatment stage of a wastewater treatment plant, ozone can significantly increase process efficiency: this highly reactive gas can act very rapidly to break down complex molecules such as pharmaceutical residues, for example, facilitating their degradation. It leaves largely biodegradable reaction products behind, which are then easily removed from the wastewater in a downstream filtration stage. The process is efficient and reliable: the required ozone can be produced on site from oxygen, integration into existing systems is easy, and maintenance costs are minimal. Here, too, Messer offers complete solutions ranging from needs assessment to the start-up of the ozone generation and injection systems. 

Wastewater neutralization with recovered CO₂

Many industrial processes generate large volumes of alkaline wastewater, notably in the construction industry. To comply reliably with strict regulations governing the discharge of treated wastewater into sewage systems, its pH must be in the neutral range. CO₂ presents an environmentally friendly and economical solution here. This gas is generated as a byproduct in industrial processes such as hydrogen or bioethanol production. In specialized plants, Messer can recover, purify, liquefy and recycle it. When dissolved in water, CO₂ forms carbonic acid, which is an environmentally friendly alternative to more commonly used mineral acids. Other benefits: the salt load of wastewater is not increased, the safety of workers is enhanced and the corrosion of plant components is prevented. 

Waste gas purification with nitrogen cooling

Many industrial processes release gaseous substances that can be harmful or even toxic. These include, for example, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are found in high concentrations in waste gas streams from the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. The DuoCondex process from Messer is an effective solution for capturing gases and vapors released in this way: the waste gas flows through cryogenic condensers cooled with cryogenic gaseous nitrogen. The extreme cold liquefies the pollutants on the interior walls, making it possible to separate them out selectively and then dispose of them properly. This ensures reliable compliance with applicable regulations for emission control. The recovered solvents can even be returned to the process and reused. 

Energy optimization with cryogenic gases

Gases such as nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide and argon are usually supplied and stored in cryogenic liquid form. Before they can be used in the production process, they must be warmed up and vaporized – whereby their “cooling energy” is generally lost. Plants with processes that also need cooling can avoid this waste with the EcoVap vaporizer from Messer. Installed in the return line of a refrigerating installation, it transfers the cold energy of the liquefied gas directly to the surrounding cooling medium. This cooling effect reduces the load on existing electrically driven refrigerating installations considerably – reducing energy consumption and indirect greenhouse gas emissions as a result. In addition, there is no ice or fog formation around the air vaporizers. 

Customer focus and applications expertise 

Along with the needs-based supply of gases, Messer provides its customers with application-specific technologies. Application specialists leverage proven concepts and their comprehensive know-how to develop tailored solutions through close collaboration with customers. Pilot plants can be installed upon request to demonstrate the practical benefits under real operating conditions. The necessary equipment is designed for optimal performance across all operating conditions and implemented.

Messer SE & Co. KGaA, the world's largest privately held specialist for industrial, medical, electronic, and specialty gases, published its annual report for 2025 today. The company’s solid performance in 2025 underpins Messer’s resilience and innovative strength. Messer has successfully adapted to a volatile environment marked by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty.

In 2025, Messer generated revenue of 4.5 billion euros and an EBITDA of 1.4 billion euros, largely stable compared to 2024, while Messer maintained a margin of 31 percent. The company generated a strong cash flow. Net debt decreased by 304 million euros to 3.2 billion euros.

“Our results show that Messer is a stable and solid company that operates successfully even in challenging times. Our strong balance sheet and targeted investments in future-oriented markets and technologies secured our long-term competitiveness,” emphasized Bernd Eulitz, CEO of Messer SE & Co. KGaA.

Continued high investments in global capacity

In 2025, Messer invested 747 million euros, primarily in new production facilities and the modernization of existing plants. The focus was on the construction of air separation plants in the United States, China, and Vietnam, as well as on-site plants, CO₂ production facilities, and cylinder gas filling plants in Europe. In addition, investments were made in the development of technologies for decarbonizing industrial processes. These investments followed a disciplined capital allocation strategy and underscore Messer’s commitment to sustainable solutions and support for the energy transition.

The 2024 strategic investments in helium facilities and reserves in the United States further strengthened Messer’s procurement capabilities and operational flexibility in supplying customers.

Global presence remains a key factor in stability

Messer’s balanced international footprint, based on a “local-for-local” approach, and its diversified portfolio of products, end markets, and customers form the foundation of the company’s business resilience. Excluding currency effects, all regions achieved revenue growth.

In Asia, revenue rose—despite a persistently deflationary environment in China—particularly in the electronics and battery materials sectors as well as in the steel industry.

In Europe, growth was driven by rising demand from the food and beverage industry as well as for medical gases.

In the Americas, revenue increased primarily due to higher demand from sectors such as aerospace, electronics, and the food and beverage industry.

Innovation and Sustainability

Messer continued to focus on research and development to drive innovative application technologies across all industries. A key focus is on the decarbonization of processes and the use of green hydrogen at customer sites. In addition, the company is investing in the digitalization of its processes to further increase efficiency and sustainability.

Outlook for 2026

For 2026, Messer expects a macroeconomic environment that will continue to be characterized by geopolitical tensions and high economic uncertainty. On a currency-adjusted basis, both revenue and EBITDA are anticipated to increase. The company also plans to consistently expand its market position through sustained high investments in high-growth regions and technologies. Consequently, a slight increase in net debt is expected.

“We look to the future with optimism. With our clear strategic direction, our financial strength, and our focus on innovation and sustainability, we are excellently positioned to capitalize on the opportunities of the coming years,” said Bernd Eulitz.

The state-of-the-art air separation plant (ASU) is capable of producing up to 210 tons of oxygen and 16 tons of nitrogen per day. At the Aurubis site in Luenen, the air gases are used across all metallurgical processes. Oxygen is deployed in copper production in the furnaces – from the smelting furnace to the converter, the mixed tin furnace, the anode furnace, and all auxiliary furnaces. Nitrogen is used throughout the entire process chain for purging and in filtration systems.

“From the very beginning, our close and cooperative partnership with Aurubis has been characterized by a shared vision of sustainable production, security of supply, and efficiency,” says Virginia Esly, Chief Operating Officer Europe at Messer. "We produce industrial gases for our customers precisely where they are needed in the manufacturing process, thereby supporting Aurubis' competitiveness and long-term success at its Luenen site. We are present in 25 countries across Europe and operate more than 100 plants to provide our customers and industry with innovative and efficient products and solutions. Our mission is clear: to be a reliable partner, a technological leader, and to shape the future together with our customers."

“The new air separation plant is a key component for the future viability of our recycling site in Luenen,” says Inge Hofkens, COO Multimetal Recycling at Aurubis AG. “It strengthens our security of supply, increases the efficiency of our processes, and makes a measurable contribution to climate protection. Luenen is a cornerstone of our international smelting network and plays a crucial role in supplying the industry with strategically important metals from recycled materials.”

Industrial gases such as nitrogen, oxygen and argon are as essential to industrial production as electricity and water, forming a fundamental basis for industrial value creation. They are used in nearly all industries—from metallurgy, chemicals, medicine and food production to the electronics and semiconductor industries, where gases are indispensable for precise manufacturing processes.

Helmut Kaschenz joined Messer in early 2021 as Chief Strategy Officer and assumed responsibility as global CFO in 2022. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in the strategic development of the company and in securing Messer’s long-term independence.

Under his leadership as a member of the Executive Board and CFO, key milestones were achieved: the acquisition of the shares of private equity company CVC Capital Partners in Messer Industries in 2023, the integration of Messer Industries into Messer, and the comprehensive refinancing of the group, which is based in Asia, Europe, and America, with additional equity capital through the entry of the Singaporean sovereign wealth fund GIC.

In addition, Helmut Kaschenz strengthened the finance functions, global governance, processes, and the company’s financial stability while further enhancing its capital market readiness and access. His more than 25 years of experience in investment banking and his broad network of institutional investors and banks enabled the successful implementation of complex financial transactions.

During his tenure, Messer achieved sales exceeding €4.5 billion and EBITDA of around €1.4 billion in 2024, combined with significant growth, margin improvement, and high investments in a capital-intensive industry. Messer plans to publish its results for 2025 in April.

Stefan Messer, shareholder and Chairman of the Supervisory Board, pays tribute to Helmut Kaschenz:

"With his strategic foresight, financial expertise, and great commitment, Helmut Kaschenz has played a decisive role in shaping Messer's history in recent years. His contribution to securing our ownership structure, long-term financing, and the further development of our global finance organization is invaluable.“

Bernd Eulitz, CEO, adds:

”I greatly value working with Helmut, especially during the landmark transaction. Messer is very well positioned and, thanks to Helmut’s work, has a strengthened and impressive finance organization."

Stefan Messer accepted further awards for the company as part of an international innovation contest. Messer Europe was awarded in the category ‘Digital Innovation & Operations Management’ for its digital cylinder gas bundle MegaPack D. "Our winning project shows that innovation is an integral part of our company culture and is driven by our employees and strongly supported by collaboration and opening doors for new ideas," says Virginia Esly, COO Messer Europe. “Messer’s MegaPack D technology is providing our customers with an automated, safe and efficient gas supply.” The jury also acknowledged the digital fill level control and the option to access further services provided by Messer, such as the automatic reordering. "With MegaPack D, we offer an outstanding innovative solution for the European market, which is highly valued by our customers," Virginia Esly continues. Messer's digital cylinder gas bundles are used in a wide range of industrial applications in the automotive, manufacturing, electronics & semiconductor sector, as well as in the laboratory and food industry.

In the category ‘Most Impactful ESG Initiative’, Messer's project ‘Climate-friendly CO₂ production from natural sources using renewable energies in North Macedonia’ was additionally recognized as runner-up. CO₂ from a natural source, which would otherwise be released into the atmosphere, is captured, purified and liquefied and made available as a valuable resource. By utilizing renewable solar energy in the production process and on-site e-mobility, this project contributes to decarbonization. “This award recognizes the commitment and hard work of our highly dedicated team in North Macedonia. It is important for us at Messer to drive ESG projects in all our European countries, also in smaller geographies such as North Macedonia,” concludes Virginia Esly.

The Cái Mép plant is designed in alignment with the green and circular economy models, utilizing cold energy from the LNG storage system of PVGas to provide deep refrigeration for the gas separation process. This facility serves as a strategic link in Petrovietnam’s LNG–industrial gas–clean energy value chain, contributing to enhanced energy efficiency, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and optimized use of existing gas infrastructure.

The project applies European Cryogenic Air Separation (CAS) technology, combined with recovery of cold energy generated during the LNG regasification process. This solution significantly reduces electricity and cooling water consumptions, thereby lowering indirect greenhouse gas emissions and improving overall environmental performance.

This is not only a pioneering project in energy transition, green economy, and circular economy — linking the value chain of Petrovietnam and implemented by PVChem to contribute to the national energy strategy but also a pioneering project for the industrial gases specialist Messer, demonstrating its strong commitment to the green production transition by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving energy (electricity and water).

Le Manh Hung – Chairman of Petrovietnam, emphasized: “The Messer – PVChem Joint Venture Project is a concrete step in realizing Petrovietnam’s green energy and circular economy strategy, aligning with Vietnam’s carbon neutrality goals.”

Bernd Eulitz – CEO of Messer SE & Co. KGaA, shared: “Messer is proud to partner with PVChem and Petrovietnam to deliver its first Cold energy recovery solution for air separation units worldwide - an innovation that optimizes energy efficiency and fully complies with European environmental standards.”

Stefan Messer – Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Messer SE & Co. KGaA, added: “This is an exciting opportunity for Vietnam’s industry to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by using low-carbon industrial gases essential for many economic and medical fields.”

Truong Dai Nghia – Chairman of PVChem, stated: “The joint venture with Messer is a strategic step for PVChem to expand into green manufacturing, enhancing internal linkages within Petrovietnam and promoting sustainable value chains.”

About Petrovietnam
2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Petrovietnam's establishment and development. Spanning half a century, Petrovietnam is currently the number 1 economic group in Vietnam, playing a pillar role in economic development and ensuring national energy security. With strong financial potential and an advanced science and technology foundation, along with a team of highly qualified managers and technical experts, Petrovietnam owns a large-scale business ecosystem, including many units and member companies operating and providing products and solutions in 03 core pillars: Energy - Industry - Services.

About PVChem
PVChem, a member of Petrovietnam, operates in oilfield chemicals, technical services, green manufacturing, and renewable energy. With over 35 years of development, PVChem aims to become a regional leader in chemical and industrial services, pioneering in green transition and circular economy development.

This milestone agreement marks Messer’s first direct long-term partnership with QatarEnergy, one of the world’s largest producers of helium. By diversifying sources and strengthening supply chains, Messer is ensuring its customers benefit from enhanced reliability and long-term security of supply of this rare gas.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, attended by senior leaders from both companies, His Excellency Mr. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, President and CEO of QatarEnergy, said, “Messer is a leading global supplier of helium with a strong reputation and diverse assets. We are delighted to enter into our first direct supply agreement with Messer and to continue providing high-quality helium to the world through reliable partners.”

Helium is an essential building block for advanced technologies and industries, including medical imaging and other healthcare applications, semiconductors, quantum computing, fiber optics, and space exploration. Messer’s recent acquisition of the former Federal Helium System in the United States secured its position as a major global helium player. This agreement with QatarEnergy expands Messer’s sourcing portfolio, strengthening its global reach.

Bernd Eulitz, CEO of Messer SE & Co. KGaA, added, “Through this agreement, Messer’s customers will gain greater confidence in consistent, high-quality supply to power their business and innovations. Most importantly, it reinforces our commitment to customers by ensuring the secure and reliable delivery of helium they need to support their long-term growth.”

By partnering with QatarEnergy, Messer is taking another step forward in building a robust, diversified, and dependable global helium supply chain— to support the rapid growth of its customers around the world, today and well into the future.

Lowering emissions and improving quality are also the focus in the field of welding. Here, Messer is presenting solutions for hand-held laser beam welding along with an innovative shielding gas for welding unalloyed steels. 

Cutting with hydrogen: HyCut offers a clear competitive edge 

Two years ago, together with Messer Cutting Systems, Messer was the first industrial gases supplier to commercialize hydrogen for oxyfuel technology. Marketed under the brand name HyCut, the solution uses 100% hydrogen as fuel gas. Hydrogen contains no carbon atoms, thereby enabling oxyfuel cutting without emitting any CO₂. This helps HyCut users meet their own sustainability goals and comply with legal requirements. 
HyCut makes it possible to apply heat with absolute precision with performance that matches or exceeds that of acetylene. Moreover, the service life of the nozzles is extended and they are also easier to recycle because they require no chrome plating. Last but not least, the noise level drops by 5 to 8 dB(A). In addition to flame cutting, HyCut has also proven itself in heating and straightening, brazing and flame spraying applications. 

Live demonstrations at the trade show will present HyCut’s advantages. 

Laser cutting: New benefits with nitrogen and oxygen 

The sharp increase in laser power in recent years has opened new opportunities: When cutting unalloyed steels, we can use the exothermal reaction process with oxygen to dispense with the energy share. This results in cut surfaces with less oxidation and significantly higher feed rates. For a long time already, nitrogen has been one of the alternatives used to produce components that require little reworking. Up until now, the disadvantages have included heavy burr formation on the underside of the components. This has changed thanks to new mixtures of nitrogen with a two to five percent share of oxygen. 

At the trade show, Messer will be showing customized solutions that optimize the use of nitrogen and oxygen according to need. 

Hand-held laser beam welding: Innovative welding gases 

Hand-held laser beam welding is fundamentally changing the world of welding. It features high precision, low heat input, high welding speed, easy handling and minimal component distortion. Messer has developed a new portfolio of shielding gas mixtures for these applications and will be presenting at the trade show how these gases, marketed under the brand Lasline, can be optimally used for hand-held laser beam welding. 

Welding unalloyed steels: Less welding fumes and particles 

At the cutting and welding trade show “Schweissen & Schneiden 2025”, Messer will present the shielding gas Ferroline C6 X1 for unalloyed steels. This special mixture of argon, carbon dioxide and oxygen, significantly reduces the emission of welding fumes and particles. This enables users to comply, simply and effectively, with increasingly demanding health protection regulations around the world. 

The advantages of this gas mixtures will be showcased at the trade show in practical demonstrations. 
 

A total of 26 innovative buses will replace their predecessors with conventional diesel engines by the end of June 2025, enabling the Rhein-Erft district to avoid emitting around 1,500 tons of greenhouse gases annually. The buses have a range of up to 350 kilometers per tank filling. They will be refueled at a hydrogen filling station provided by Messer on the REVG premises. This is also the location of the H. Freund freight forwarding company, which began commissioning the filling station in October 2024. Messer, the world's largest privately owned specialist for industrial, medical, and specialty gases, was selected as a partner. 

Andreas Noky, specialist for H₂ filling station projects at Messer: "Since the start of trial operations in November 2024, the fleet has gradually expanded from two to 26 buses. Over 400 refueling operations have taken place, filling approximately 6 tons of hydrogen. The average refueling time was less than 10 minutes, which is no longer than refueling with diesel fuel. To date, the operation of the new fuel cell hybrid buses and the refueling of additional vehicles from REVG partner companies have already avoided the emission of around 65 tons of greenhouse gases." 

Messer has been a technology and hydrogen supplier for one of the largest fleets of fuel cell-powered electric buses in the US since 2011. In Jülich (North Rhine-Westphalia), Messer is building a plant for the production of green hydrogen in a joint venture with the district of Düren. With a rated output of 10 megawatts and a production capacity of up to 180 kilograms of hydrogen per hour, the plant will be one of the largest of its kind in Germany. In neighboring Belgium, Messer is a partner in the Hyoffwind project in Zeebrugge for hydrogen electrolysis with a rated output of 25 megawatts. 

Project scope and location advantages
The CO₂ terminal is to be built on an unused area of around 12 hectares on the Ambrian Energy site. The location offers ideal logistical conditions: An existing rail connection enables CO₂ to be transported by train, while a port jetty for ships with a capacity of up to 40,000 tons ensures onward transport to geological CO₂ storage facilities in the North Sea. The planned terminal capacity is initially two million tons of CO₂ per year.

The scope of the pre-FEED study included the feasibility of constructing a specialized tank farm for liquefied CO₂, which will have an integrated quality assurance system and a gas recovery facility. In addition, a modern unloading facility for CO₂ transport by train is to be built to ensure efficient delivery of the liquefied CO₂. Another key element is the ship loading facility, which will enable the safe and loss-free transportation of the CO₂ to geological sinks in the North Sea.

Strategic partnership for sustainable CO₂ logistics
Messer, the world's leading privately owned specialist for industrial, medical and specialty gases, has decades of experience in CO₂ recovery and processing.

Last fall, Messer launched “ZeCarb® ‘, a new offering in the field of ’Carbon Capture as a Service” (CCaaS). “ZeCarb® “ stands for ‘Zero Carbon’ and helps to decarbonize industries with high CO₂ emissions. Ambrian Energy, on the other hand, has extensive expertise in the logistics of fuels. Together, the two companies are pursuing the goal of offering customers a complete value chain from CO₂ recovery from industrial emitters to transportation by train and loading onto ships for CO₂ sequestration.

Following the successful completion of the feasibility study, the two companies are planning a strategic partnership to jointly implement the CO₂ terminal. This would create a central infrastructure that supports Germany in achieving its climate targets and contributes to the scaling of the CCS infrastructure.

About ZeCarb®
ZeCarb® is a service brand for the “Carbon Capture as a Service” (CCaaS) offering from Messer, the world's largest privately owned specialist for industrial, medical and specialty gases. With ZeCarb® (“Zero Carbon”), Messer helps various industries and municipalities, for example from steel, cement, glass, paper and chemical production or fossil-fired power plants, to achieve their “net zero” climate targets by capturing CO₂ emissions directly at source. In doing so, Messer draws on decades of experience in the field of CO₂ recovery. As a global player, Messer offers its sustainable products and services in Asia, Europe and America. This enables Messer to offer all areas of the Carbon Capture Utilization & Storage (CCUS) value chain from a single source. Messer has already installed more than 90 plants worldwide, which are among the most proven and scalable systems for CO₂ recovery.

Web: https://zecarb.messergroup.com

Mail: request@zecarb.messergroup.com

About Ambrian Energy
For 50 years, Ambrian Energy GmbH has been a reliable and competent partner for international oil companies as well as numerous independent companies in the German energy and mineral oil industry. Ambrian Energy GmbH offers a wide range of products, high capacities and fast service. We trade all fuels and mineral oils available on the market and act as a reliable link in the supply chain. In addition to fossil mineral oil fuels, the proportion of alternative fuels is also growing continuously - and is an integral part of our range.

Web: https://ambrian-energy.com

Mail: contact@ambrian-energy.com

Despite the challenging economic environment, Messer, the world’s largest privately owned specialist for industrial, medical and specialty gases, demonstrated resilience in the financial year 2024. Group sales rose by 2 percent* to approximately EUR 4.5 billion as new capacities were added and new customers were supplied, including in the aerospace and semiconductor industries. EBITDA increased by approximately 10 percent* to EUR 1.4 billion. Messer invested around EUR 0.9 billion to foster future growth by building additional plants and maintaining existing assets. In addition, Messer secured helium volumes in the US during 2024.

“The industrial gases business proves resilient even in globally challenging times, supported by a broadly diversified customer base and regional footprint,” explains Bernd Eulitz, CEO of Messer, adding, “the vast majority of our products are produced locally to serve local customers, with only limited cross-border business.” Messer also expanded its team and employed over 11,800 people at the end of 2024, compared to around 11,500 in the previous year.

Regionally diversified industrial gas business

Sales of Messer’s companies in the Americas amounted to approximately EUR 2.4 billion in the 2024 financial year, up 4 percent* year-on-year. Around EUR 1.6 billion of total regional sales is attributable to the US, EUR 0.3 billion to Canada and EUR 0.4 billion to Latin America.

Capital investment projects in this region were concentrated in the US. The primary focus was on strategic projects expanding the market segments aerospace, semiconductor and medical industries, as well as on investments in the helium business. Investments in Latin America support Messer’s growth and enhance reliability in the region.

In Europe, Messer generated stable sales of around EUR 1.3 billion. In Western Europe, Messer achieved sales of EUR 0.5 billion, while Central Europe and Southeast Europe contributed sales of EUR 0.4 billion each.

Investment projects in the region included carbon dioxide production plants in Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Serbia. In Belgium, Messer inaugurated the construction of the country’s first industrial-scale green hydrogen production plant. The 25 MW facility in Zeebrugge is part of the joint venture Hyoffwind, which is expected to commence operation in 2026. Meanwhile, in Germany, Messer pursued the realization of a 10 MW green hydrogen plant as a joint venture partner of HyDN GmbH in Dueren, with operations planned to begin this year. A new filling plant started its operations in Spain to support growth and enhance logistical efficiency in the Northeast of the country. Further investments in generators, purification and filling plants were made across the region.

In Asia, Messer generated stable sales of EUR 0.8 billion. EUR 0.7 billion is attributable to China and EUR 0.1 billion to the ASEAN region. Strong sales growth in Vietnam compensated lower sales in China. The positive development in Vietnam is due to the demand from pipeline customers and for liquefied gases, which facilitated the ramp-up of new production assets.

In its ASEAN region, Messer continued to invest particularly in Vietnam. In addition to further expanding on-site capacities for customers in the steel industry, investments in end-markets such as food processing, electronics and healthcare support diversification of end-markets for Messer in the country. In Thailand, Messer’s investment into its first production facility continued.

In China, the group invested in air separation plants, generators and specialty gas production and purification facilities to support customers across end-markets such as the steel, chemical, electronics, pharmaceutical and food and beverage industries.

Long-term financing successfully secured

In the financial year 2024, EUR 1.3 billion in private placements and EUR 1.15 billion in promissory notes were successfully raised to fully refinance outstanding acquisition loans and securing long-term financing.

Net debt at the end of 2024 amounted to EUR 3.6 billion, with cash and cash equivalents totaling EUR 0.5 billion.

* Consolidated financials for Messer, with prior year figures presented on a pro-forma basis, reflecting the current year’s scope and adjustments related to the acquisition of Messer Industries in November 2023.

Sustainability is at the core of Messer’s business strategy, and we are taking concrete actions in our operations to make progress and create value for our customers. In this case Messer sources the carbon dioxide as raw gas from a local bioethanol producer. Thereby bioethanol sources support the movement to reduced greenhouse gases emissions by lowering the dependency of fossil or chemical sources - supporting Messer’s ESG agenda. With this new plant, Messer is further strengthening its independent local product supply. The industrial gases specialist now delivers the gas itself to its customers in various industries and does not have to purchase carbon dioxide for the Czech market or import it from Messer sources abroad. Additionally, climate damaging greenhouse gases can be reduced due to shorter transportation routes.

Exactly one year earlier – on November 13, 2023 – Messer utilized short-term acquisition loans of 900 million US dollars and 1,450 million euros to finance part of the shares acquired in Messer Industries from minority owner CVC Capital Partners. Except for an amount of 500 million euros, these loans had already been refinanced  by the issuance of private placements in US dollars in March 2024 and of Schuldscheindarlehen (“promissory notes”) in euros in July 2024.

Messer was now able to secure a further 272 million euros in private placements with tenors of ten and twelve years. In addition, Schuldscheindarlehen (“promissory notes”) with tenors of three and five years were issued for a total amount of 200 million euros. The remaining amount was repaid from available liquidity.

Helmut Kaschenz, Chief Financial Officer of Messer, said: “We are very pleased that we were able to refinance the acquisition debt on a long-term basis and in full within just one year. The successful issuance of US private placements and Schuldscheindarlehen by mid-year was the basis on which we were now able to implement the last step of our take-out strategy. The repayment of the bridge financing provides further flexibility to support Messer’s future growth.”

On Wednesday, November 27, at 4 p.m., Stefan Messer, shareholder and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Messer, together with Mayor Frank Blasch, will welcome the guests and open the Christmas market. Afterwards, the children from the kindergartens “Kinderresidenz”, “Sonnenburg” and “Am Hübenbusch” will each decorate a festive Christmas tree. From 5 p.m., the Theo Choir of the Theodor Heuss School will be singing Christmas carols.

On Thursday, November 28, children from the “Drei Linden”, “Max Baginski” and “Maria Hilf” kindergartens will decorate another three trees with hand-made Christmas decorations. Susanna Fan Ebener's choir will provide an atmospheric finale with Christmas carols on Messer-Platz from 5 p.m., creating a contemplative atmosphere.   

This year, visitors can expect 13 Christmas huts and a barbecue stand. The repertoire on offer ranges from a variety of decorative and gift items, high-quality fashion and sustainable children's articles to Christmas decorations and culinary delights.

A visit to the Christmas market should also be unforgettable for young visitors. The “Malplatz” ceramics workshop makes sure of this - children can individually paint ceramic products in their tent and create their very own unique Christmas gift.

Mulled wine and sausages are a must at a Christmas market. At the historic train station, Messer and Hardtberg Grundstücksgesellschaft mbH will be providing food and drink. Employees from both companies will be selling sausages as well as mulled wine, sparkling wine and cold drinks.

The exhibitors in the Christmas huts are:

1. Bücherstube Gaab Bad Soden
2. Deko & Ratio
3. Geisha Nudelbar
4. Hardtberg Grundstücksgesellschaft mbH
5. Janoulas Ideenreich
6. JS Lifestyle & Fashion
7. DIY Dies & Das Julia Kungel
8. Malplatz
9. Messer Cutting Systems GmbH
10. Messer SE & Co. KGaA
11. My Shiny Shop
12. Slovenian Cultural Association
13. City of Bad Soden am Taunus
14. Yannis Finest

The company, headquartered in Bad Soden am Taunus/Germany, recently reported that it had increased the proportion of women in its first and second levels of management to 27 percent in 2023. Messer is committed to have 30 percent of women at first and second management level by 2030. In terms of women in senior management, Messer has reached a proportion of 40 percent women on the executive management board. On Messer's supervisory board, which Stefan Messer chairs, the proportion of women is even higher, at over 50 percent. 

“We are meeting our commitments as a company,” affirms Bernd Eulitz. “It is our shared responsibility to promote gender equality and social development in the countries in which we operate.” The Women’s Empowerment Principles support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and offer guidance to business on how to advance gender equality and empower people. Our pledge demonstrates our commitment to fostering business practices that empower people in the workplace.The industrial gases group, which has more than 11,500 employees in Asia, Europe and America, celebrated Global Diversity Awareness Month in October under the motto “Living Respect”. The signing of the WEP is part of the awareness campaign for diversity and equality. 
 

• reduced the emissions intensity of its plants and logistics by about 23 percent compared with the previous year. 
• developed innovative technology solutions to help its customers use resources more efficiently and reduce their carbon footprint. 
• further increased the share of women in management. 

Messer, the world’s largest privately held specialist for industrial, medical, and specialty gases, published its 2023 Corporate Sustainability Report and non-financial key performance indicators. 

Sustainability has been at the core of Messer’s strategy for more than 125 years. Today Messer continues to take concrete actions in its day-to-day operations to make progress and create value across its value chain in Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Helping protect the planet and valuing people 

“Messer’s long-term growth is rooted in the expertise, diversity, and unwavering commitment of our employees around the world. They are the driving force behind Messer’s innovative solutions. Every day, their entrepreneurial spirit, skills, and energy drive us forward. Hand in hand with our customers, partners, and suppliers, we overcome the challenges of today’s society, make a meaningful change, and shape a future for all,” said Bernd Eulitz, CEO of Messer. 

In 2023, Messer reduced the emissions intensity of its plants and logistics by 23.4 percent compared with 2022, reaching 3.7 kilograms of CO₂e per euro of EBITDA, using the market-based method. The improvement was driven by absolute emissions reductions and revenue growth. Overall, since 2019, Messer has managed to cut its emissions intensity by 36.2 percent. Messer is therefore moving one step closer to its goal of a 40 percent reduction by 2030 compared with a 2019 baseline. In 2023, Messer’s absolute carbon emissions followed a similar trend, decreasing by 15.7 percent due to reduced electricity consumption and improved emission factors. 

Besides being as essential as water and electricity in most industrial processes, gases can play a significant role in their decarbonization. Messer also develops innovative, cutting-edge gas applications designed to improve safety, increase efficiency, and protect the environment. In 2023, Messer launched ZeCarb (“Zero Carbon”), its new “Carbon Capture as a Service” offer to help decarbonize industries with high CO₂ emissions. As a key player in the hydrogen ecosystem, Messer remains focused on selected segments and relies on strong partnerships to accelerate the energy transition in both the mobility and industrial sectors. Messer continues to provide innovative technology solutions that help customers reduce their carbon footprint and boost productivity, such as oxyfuel combustion. 

For Messer, diversity is the basis for innovation and sustainable corporate success. Mutual trust and respect are part of the corporate values that form the basis of its corporate culture. In line with Messer’s commitment to establishing mixed-gender management teams with 30 percent of women by 2030, the proportion of women in the first and second levels of management increased from 24.7 percent in 2022 to 27 percent in 2023. 

Safety is at the core of everything Messer does. In 2023, the company implemented complementary measures to keep cultivating its safety culture, while fostering a safety mindset throughout its value chain. 

Further embedding sustainability in Messer’s business strategy 

In April 2024, Messer appointed Patricia Hargil as the company’s first Chief Sustainability Officer. Building on Messer’s achievements, she works closely with regional and corporate functions to advance the company’s Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) as well as Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) agendas. Together with her team, she develops Messer’s sustainability strategy, prepares ESG disclosures, and establishes programs to further drive the company’s commitment to operating responsibly and sustainably. “I am honored to lead Messer’s global sustainability and D&I efforts. Messer’s sustainability reporting journey started on a voluntary basis 10 years ago. The implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) introduced new standards, thereby enhancing transparency. I am proud to actively work with Messer teams in Asia, Europe, and the Americas to navigate the ESG environment and ensure a smooth transition toward a new way of reporting,” explained Patricia Hargil. 

The 2023 Corporate Sustainability Report with the current projects, key ESG indicators and defined goals is available online here. 

Note: The data presented in this press release offers a consolidated overview of Messer (formerly Messer Group and Messer Industries). It includes the former 100 percent equity-accounted investment in Messer Industries, which was acquired in November 2023. 
 

Placement of the Schuldschein loans started with an initial volume of EUR 300 million. The transaction was very well received by the Schuldschein market and Messer was able to upsize the final volume more than three times at very attractive terms. The Schuldschein transaction consisted of tranches with three-, five-, and seven-year tenors. Tranches with fixed as well as variable interest terms were signed. Final spreads in all tranches were set at the lower end of the initial reoffer spread ranges. Proceeds from the Schuldschein loans are applied for partial refinancing of a EUR 1,450 million bridge facility taken up for the acquisition of all shares in Messer Industries from minority owner CVC Capital Partners last year.

Helmut Kaschenz, Chief Financial Officer of Messer, says: “After the successful private placement of Senior Notes with institutional investors in March 2024, we were able to conclude another sizeable step of our take-out strategy within just a few months. The high demand for Messer’s debut transaction in the Schuldschein market emphasizes investor’s confidence in the development and reliability of our company. With this transaction, Messer also successfully diversified its funding instruments.”

BayernLB, Deutsche Bank AG, Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen Girozentrale and UniCredit Bank GmbH acted as Joint Lead Arrangers in the transaction.

The hydrogen plant will be operated by HyDN GmbH, a joint venture between the district of Düren and Messer. With a nominal output of 10 megawatts and a production capacity of up to 180 kilograms of hydrogen per hour, the plant will be one of the largest of its kind in Germany. The green hydrogen produced will primarily be used to power fuel cell buses. Five of these climate-friendly buses, which only emit water vapor during operation, are already in use in the district of Düren. Another 20 are to follow by November 2024.

As part of the project, NEUMAN & ESSER was commissioned to supply two electrolyzers for hydrogen production and two diaphragm compressors for pressurizing the hydrogen. Messer will be responsible for storing the hydrogen produced, filling, and quality assurance. "For Messer, this project is another important strategic step to support our customers in decarbonization. We are involved in the engineering of the hydrogen production plant, will take over the operation of the plant in the long term, and distribute the green hydrogen. With this project, we are making an important contribution to climate protection by reducing environmentally harmful CO₂ emissions," says Virginia Esly, COO Europe of Messer.

The green hydrogen plant is set to go into operation in the fall of 2025. Its construction is being funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMDV) with around 14.7 million euros. The funding is part of the National Innovation Program Hydrogen 2 (NIP2).

Toyota Tsusho Europe SA and Messer SE & Co. KGaA bring their respective strengths to the newly established joint venture: Toyota Tsusho Europe, a wholly owned subsidiary of Toyota Tsusho Corporation as a renowned company for the business development of value chains in mobility and Messer as the world's largest privately held specialist for industrial, medical and specialty gases with many years of hydrogen experience. 

SympH₂ony offers fleet mobility solutions based on clean hydrogen including zero-emission vehicles, hydrogen refueling stations and hydrogen supplies with optional on-site production of H₂ as well as the services required for reliable operation – all tailored to the customer's specific needs. The option of billing according to kilometers driven by the fleet ensures calculable total operating costs. 

At the headquarters of SympH₂ony in Bad Soden, Germany, representatives of Messer and Toyota Tsusho Europe, including members of the management boards, gave the official go-ahead for the joint venture on June 26. 

“We offer private and public fleet operators the opportunity to safely achieve their goals for emission-free mobility. SympH₂ony overcomes obstacles such as technological uncertainty, commercial complexity, and capital availability. Fleet operators have the opportunity to act strategically and to take substantial steps towards zero emissions (ZE) operations, whilst continuing to focus on their core business. ZE made EZ!” says Tim Evison, SVP Clean Hydrogen at Messer. 

Kenji Yamanaka, Head of Next Mobility Toyota Tsusho Europe, adds: “SympH₂ony will build and operate on-site solutions that enable European fleet operators to move away from today's dependence on fossil fuels towards a zero-emission future.” 

Messer has been working with hydrogen almost since its beginnings over 125 years ago. Today, the company supports some of the world's largest fleets of fuel cell vehicles by supplying hydrogen and applying its extensive experience in hydrogen refueling. Messer produces renewable, low-carbon hydrogen and develops unique, patented contributions to improve hydrogen mobility. 

Toyota Tsusho Corporation is a global company that conducts business all over the world in a variety of business segments such as Mobility, Green Infrastructure, and Circular Economy. Today, the company is developing a hydrogen ecosystem to contribute to carbon neutrality as one of the Toyota Group companies. 

In Europe, the company is headquartered in Belgium as Toyota Tsusho Europe and has operations in Belgium, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Hungary, Poland, Spain, Turkey, and the UK, employing around 1,300 people across the region. 
 

Further information at symph2ony.eu 

The commissioning of the new filling plant for cylinder gases led to the direct and indirect creation of 25 new jobs in the region. The plant offers a production capacity of 250,000 gas cylinders per year and will be powered entirely by renewable energy. The plant will also be granted approval as a pharmaceutical laboratory for the production of medical gases; in the future, it will also include additional filling lines for green hydrogen. 

As Rubén Folgado, Managing Director of Messer in Spain, pointed out in his opening speech, “This new investment boosts Messer’s competitiveness and strengthens our growth strategy in the Iberian Peninsula.” “Our products are indispensable to many industrial processes, where they enhance safety, increase efficiency, and improve the environmental outcomes of our customers’ production processes,” Folgado added. He spoke in front of more than 100 invited guests, headed by the most important authorities of the region, including the President of Navarre, María Chivite, and Alicia Echeverría, the Government Delegate in the region. Guests also included Mikel Irujo, the Regional Minister for Industry, Environment and Digital Change, and Marta Ruiz, the Mayor of Estella. 

Messer: a 125-year success story 

Stefan Messer, Chairman of the Supervisory Board and third-generation shareholder of Messer, and Virginia Esly, CEO Messer Europe, joined in welcoming the guests. In his address, Stefan Messer offered an overview of his company’s success story spanning more than 125 years, which currently employs around 11,500 people in Asia, Europe, and America. He underscored that the development of Messer in Spain is solid and that the company is on a good growth path. 

In her speech, Virginia Esly emphasized that Messer’s business in Europe remains resilient and is thus very successful. “Our independence strategy for profitable growth also includes the investment we have made here in Navarre,” Esly added.

The President of the Navarre region, María Chivite, welcomed the investment in Estella for the number of jobs created. “This is a concrete example of how Messer’s projects directly improve people’s lives,” she said. She also stressed that it is encouraging to see how companies with international operations such as Messer are committed to reducing environmental impacts by promoting decarbonization solutions or working entirely with renewable energy. “I have faith that we will soon be able to count on Messer’s planned filling plant for green hydrogen here in Estella,” María Chivite concluded. 

Messer, the world’s largest privately held industrial gas specialist, will take part in “The Tire Cologne” together with AZuR (Allianz Zukunft Reifen), a network committed to fostering a circular economy for tires. Messer’s booth will be centrally located in hall 7.1, booth A040 – B049, in the exhibition area dedicated to circular economy, where the latest technology solutions for the sustainable production and recycling of tires will be presented. 

According to the European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers' Association (ETRMA), more than 3 million metric tons of end-of-life tires accumulate every year solely in Europe. Recycling and reusing these tires is essential to minimize waste, preserve natural resources, and comply with environmental regulations. Messer’s gas solutions support this and enable further development of a circular economy for tires. 

Nitrogen: a key enabler for tire recycling 

Nitrogen and the related technology solutions from Messer play a key role in both the material and chemical recycling of tires. 

Cold grinding with liquid nitrogen is a proven application for material recycling, used to separate the different materials of tires and produce very fine rubber powders. In the process, liquid nitrogen at a temperature of -196 °C cools and embrittles tire rubber granules in paddle screw coolers. Cold grinding enables a high throughput, a stable process as well as a higher quality of the ground rubber compared to conventional grinding methods. 

Another method for recycling end-of-life tires is pyrolysis. Gaseous nitrogen is injected to replace ambient air before feeding shredded tires into the reactor, ensuring that the oxygen content remains below two percent. This inert atmosphere protects tires and prevents combustion. During the pyrolysis process, end-of-life tires are heated to a high temperature to thermally decompose them and recover products such as carbon black and pyrolysis oil, which can either be used to manufacture new tires or reused for other purposes. 

Extensive know-how for the tire industry 

At Messer’s state-of-the-art technical center for cold grinding and recycling in Krefeld, Germany, tests can be conducted to precisely define the grinding parameters, estimate manufacturing costs, and compare the results of different grinding processes. Additionally, Messer offers a reliable supply of nitrogen tailored to the needs of its customers. 
 

Until now, Messer has focused on the production of nitric oxide (NO) as a medicinal product. This takes place for the European market in Austria. The acquisition of EKU means that dosing devices for NO therapies can now also be produced and marketed. Messer will supplement its own distribution channels with EKU's existing network. This will enable the company to offer its complete solutions internationally in the healthcare sector.

In its 125^th anniversary year, Messer was able to further increase both sales and EBITDA despite challenging economic conditions. As a result of high inflation rates, economic activity slowed in 2023, which had a corresponding impact on demand for industrial gases. However, Messer's business once again proved to be resilient: the world's largest privately owned specialist for industrial, medical and specialty gases was able to increase its total sales by 7.1 percent* to around 4,391 million euros* in the 2023 financial year. The company was also able to improve its EBITDA once again. It rose by 9.1 percent* to around 1,284 million*. At around 636 million euros*, investments remained at a high level. "Our investments are geared towards securing the economic viability of our existing business and exploiting profitable growth potential," explains Bernd Eulitz, CEO of Messer, adding, "Our investment decisions also support Messer's sustainability goals, for example with regard to our customers' decarbonization efforts or plant optimization and digitalization." Like the other key figures, the number of employees also increased. In the 2023 financial year, there were 11,519 employees; in the previous year, 11,259 people worked for Messer.

Sales development in the regions
In Asia, Messer generated sales of 811 million euros in the 2023 financial year. Although this corresponds to a decrease in sales of 4.4 percent, this development is mainly due to a negative currency effect in China and, among other things, the weaker Vietnamese steel market compared to the previous year.
In 2023, Messer in China again invested primarily in projects that further strengthen the company's position in the liquefied gas market and thus promote a balanced diversification of customers. Messer also invested primarily in specialty gas production facilities, particularly for supplying customers in the electronics industry.
In the ASEAN region, Messer's investments focused mainly on projects in Vietnam. In addition to investments in air separation plants for on-site customers, the industrial gases specialist has driven forward the expansion of its liquefied gas production capacities in the south of the country. The investment projects are also intended to supply a wide range of industries in Vietnam. In Thailand, the foundation stone was laid for Messer's first air separation plant.

The companies in Europe generated sales of around 1,284 million euros* in the 2023 financial year.
In Western Europe, Messer achieved sales of 501 million euros. This is an increase of 3.6 percent. The Central Europe region generated sales of 401 million euros, representing an increase in sales of 22.8 percent compared to the previous year. The Southeast Europe region increased its turnover by 18.8 percent compared to the previous year to 383 million euros.
Investment projects in Central and Southeast Europe included, in particular, the carbon dioxide production plants in the Czech Republic, Austria, Serbia and Poland. Messer also invested in an air separation plant in Serbia and a filling plant in Romania.
In Germany, the final work on the air separation plant in Speyer and the filling plant in Siegen was completed. In Spain, Messer commissioned an air separation plant in the chemical park near Tarragona and a filling plant for gases in cylinders.

The sales of Messer's companies in North America amounted to approximately 1,874 million euros in the 2023 financial year, up 8.3 percent on the previous year. Of this, around 1,557 million euros is attributable to the US companies and 317 million euros to the business in Canada. Investment projects in this region were mainly concentrated in the USA. The focus here was on the plants in Texas and Ohio and on investments in the helium business.

The South American companies in Brazil, Colombia and Chile recorded an increase in both medical and industrial gases, generating sales of 391 million euros. The result is therefore 8.8 percent higher than sales in the 2022 financial year.
 

* Consolidated presentation of Messer (formerly Messer Group and Messer Industries), which includes the former 100 percent equity-accounted investment in Messer Industries and was adjusted for the effects of the acquisition of Messer Industries in November 2023.

With "ZeCarb", Messer is responding to the growing global demand for solutions to reduce CO₂ emissions in industrial processes. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA, iea.org), 1.2 gigatonnes of CO₂ emissions must be prevented each year through Carbon Capture Utilization & Storage (CCUS) alone in order to achieve the net zero scenario by 2050. Messer is making a contribution to this with its new "ZeCarb" service, drawing on decades of experience in the field of CO₂ recovery. Bernd Eulitz, CEO of Messer, explains: “We are in the process of changing the way in which companies across all industries reduce their carbon footprint, aligning with global sustainability goals while tapping into new growth opportunities. With our "Carbon Capture as a Service" offering under the name "ZeCarb", we provide companies and municipalities a solution to achieve their CO₂ targets from an economic point of view and fulfill their ecological responsibility."

“ZeCarb is the entire CCUS value chain from a single source”
Messer captures CO₂ emissions - for example from steel, cement, glass, paper or chemical production or from fossil-fired power plants for electricity and heat generation - before they are released into the atmosphere. The recovered CO₂ is then used in applications that aim to reduce the use of fossil fuels. For example, in the production of synthetic fuels, so-called eFuels, or sustainable aviation fuels. As an alternative to utilization, the recovered CO₂ is permanently stored in geological formations underground. Particularly depleted oil and gas fields, which have stored a mixture of natural gas, nitrogen and CO₂ for millions of years, are used for this purpose.

As a global company in the leading markets in Asia, Europe and America, Messer is globally networked with cooperation partners. "This puts us in a position to cover all areas of the CCUS value chain for customers from a single source," says Dr. Tarek El Hawary, Chief Technology Officer at Messer. He also emphasizes: "Thanks to the new ZeCarb service, we can now also use our proven CO₂ recovery technology in the context of Carbon Capture Utilization & Storage."

 Messer has set up a themed landing page at https://zecarb.messergroup.com where interested parties can find out more about the new service offering.

About ZeCarb
ZeCarb is a service brand of Messer, the world's largest privately owned specialist for industrial, medical and specialty gases. With ZeCarb ("Zero Carbon"), Messer helps various industries and municipalities, such as steel, cement, glass, paper, chemical production or fossil-fired power plants, to achieve their "net zero" climate targets by capturing CO₂ emissions directly at the source. In doing so, Messer draws on decades of experience in the field of CO₂ recovery. As a global player, Messer offers its sustainable products and services in Asia, Europe and America. This enables Messer to cover all areas of the Carbon Capture Utilization & Storage (CCUS) value chain from a single source. Messer has already installed more than 90 systems worldwide, which are among the most proven and scalable systems for carbon capture.
https://zecarb.messergroup.com   

At the site of the electronics giant Harman, Messer has commissioned a nitrogen generator with the latest technology that improves energy efficiency and controls the separation of nitrogen from the ambient air more effectively, making operation more economical. The high-purity nitrogen is generated directly on-site for the manufacturing of electronic products, replacing the previous deliveries by road and thus contributing to decarbonization. The specific electricity consumption per cubic meter of gas supply will be reduced to one third compared to the previous nitrogen supply.

Harman, a subsidiary of Samsung, is present in the automotive industry as well as in the world of sound and studio technology. It owns several renowned brands such as JBL, AKG, Harman Kardon, dbx, Lexicon and Martin. In Székesfehérvár, Hungary, it manufactures electronic and acoustic products for the automotive industry. They produce amplifiers, navigation systems, and other electronic devices for the most demanding car brands. They do this with the most modern production technologies of the 21^st century and the highest quality standards.

The operation of on-site production plants for industrial gases is a dynamically developing strategic business area for Messer supporting our customer’s decarbonization efforts across various industries.

Proceeds were mainly applied to the full refinancing of a USD-denominated bridge facility taken up for the acquisition of all shares in Messer Industries from minority owner CVC Capital Partners last year. Remaining proceeds will be applied to general corporate purposes. 
The transaction is divided across 7-, 10- and 12-years tranches with a weighted-average fixed-rate coupon of 5.64%. As a result of strong investor demand, the issuance was several times oversubscribed. 
Helmut Kaschenz, Chief Financial Officer of Messer, said: “With the private placement, we have successfully concluded the first step of our take-out financing, only shortly after the closing of the acquisition of all shares in Messer Industries, the previous joint-venture with CVC. When returning to the private placement market, we appreciated the strong confidence in our business and the long-term orientation of investors, some of which are well-known to Messer for a very long time.” 
BNP Paribas Securities Corp., BofA Securities, Inc. and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC acted as Joint Lead Placement Agents for the private placement. 

Disclaimer
This notice is for information only, does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.  This notice is not for distribution or release in or into Australia, Canada, Japan or the United States of America (or to U.S. persons), or in any other jurisdiction in which offers or sales of securities would be prohibited by applicable law. The securities of Messer have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Act”) and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Act.

The Federal Helium System was auctioned by the General Services Administration (GSA) on January 25, 2024, in accordance with the Helium Stewardship Act of 2013, which required the Bureau of Land Management to sunset its management of the System and follow a statutory disposal process. The Helium System includes helium molecules stored in the caverns in Amarillo, Texas, as well as the Cliffside field, wells and gathering system, the 423-mile-long crude helium pipeline, and additional operational assets. 

Messer has been the operator of the Cliffside gas plant, which enriches the helium extracted from the storage tank in a first stage, for almost two years now. “Messer is fully committed to the future success of the Helium System, as evidenced by Messer’s safe and reliable operation of the System’s Cliffside Gas Plant since May 2022,” said Elena Skvortsova, COO Americas and Member of the Executive Board of Messer. 
The accepted bid must now undergo required antitrust review by the Department of Justice. The company will also work with regulators across multiple states to comply with local laws and regulations. 
“Messer intends to be a responsible operator and steward of this critical asset for decades to come, continuing to serve the many industries that rely on this vital resource that enables key technology and innovation in multiple sectors of the economy,” Skvortsova added.

Due to its special properties, the noble gas helium is indispensable for many applications, for example for magnetic resonance imaging in medicine, the production of semiconductors, space travel, the generation of very low temperatures in research and science, as a shielding gas in welding, as a tracer gas in leak detection or as a carrier gas in gas chromatography.
At around 4 Kelvin, -286.93 degrees C, liquid helium has the lowest boiling point of all gases. It is therefore the coldest liquid of all and thus the ideal refrigerant for generating extremely low temperatures.