“To remain competitive in today’s economic environment, our logistics activities must be carried out in the most effective and efficient way possible,” said Stefan Osterwind, commercial director, Europe, Ashland Performance Materials. “De Rijke’s capabilities will help us leverage existing local relationships with carriers and warehouses, while at the same time it will simplify the administrative aspects of managing our transportation and warehousing network. This will allow us to focus on our core manufacturing and service activities, in turn improving our service and delivery capabilities to customers.”

Full implementation of the logistics services agreement is expected to take two to three months in order to fully transition to the new logistics services provider. Customers will not see any impact to their operations as a result of this transition.

De Rijke was established in 1945 now has more than 2,400 employees and over the years has built up a solid reputation in delivering supply chain solutions to the chemical industry in Europe. Today it operates more than 30 logistics centers spread over 11 European countries and the Middle East.

Ashland Performance Materials is the global leader in unsaturated polyester resins and epoxy vinyl ester resins. In addition, it provides customers with leading technologies in gelcoats, pressure-sensitive and structural adhesives, and metal casting consumables and design services.

Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) provides specialty chemical products, services and solutions for many of the world’s most essential needs and industries. Serving customers in more than 100 countries, it operates through five commercial units: Ashland Aqualon Functional Ingredients, Ashland Hercules Water Technologies, Ashland Performance Materials, Ashland Consumer Markets (Valvoline) and Ashland Distribution. To learn more about Ashland, visit www.ashland.com.