Strategy and Outlook for the Global Chemicals Industry in 2025: In Conversation with Towner Magill

In a rapidly evolving post-pandemic landscape, stability and growth in the supply chain and chemical industries are top priorities for 2025. In this interview, Towner Magill, Commercial Director, Key Accounts North America at Brenntag shares expert insights into strategies for navigating potential disruptions, embracing digital transformation, and hiring talent that can adapt to an increasingly tech-driven industry. With a focus on resilience and strategic foresight, Towner offers practical guidance for companies looking to secure stability and unlock growth in the coming year.

What are some strategies for establishing stability in 2025, given the recent disruptions in global demand and supply chains?

While global demand and pricing in many markets has returned to some sense of “normalcy” in the post-COVID and post-Gulf Coast freeze era, these events have underscored the fragility of supply chains. Even small disruptions in production, combined with reduced inventory levels, can cascade into significant challenges, highlighting the need for a proactive and comprehensive approach to supply chain management.

One key takeaway is the importance of fully understanding the supplier and customer commitments on critical raw materials, regardless of their size or perceived importance. These seemingly minor details can have an outsized impact on the stability of operations, especially as markets regain momentum and demand accelerates.

Looking ahead, incorporating contractual agreements where informal arrangements might have previously sufficed could be crucial. Formalised commitments provide a safety net, ensuring both suppliers and customers have a clear, mutual understanding of expectations and obligations. This approach not only strengthens the resilience of supply chains but also positions businesses to better navigate the complexities of fluctuating demand and potential future disruptions.

What growth strategies do you see emerging in the market for 2025?

The shift toward digital business solutions is accelerating across industries, and more customers are seeking efficient, seamless ways to conduct business digitally. Recognising this, Brenntag is fully committed to enhancing its digital strategy, dedicating significant time and resources to creating platforms that cater to the evolving needs of its customers, particularly in transactional business.

In the chemical industry, where companies are often expected to achieve more with fewer resources, digital transformation has become less of a competitive edge and more of a necessity. By streamlining processes and improving transparency, digital solutions can help businesses optimise operations and maintain a high level of service even with constrained resources.

Embracing this digital-first culture sooner rather than later will position companies to capitalise on growth opportunities, improve customer satisfaction, and stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly tech-driven market. For those that adapt quickly, the rewards are clear: greater efficiency, stronger customer relationships, and a foundation for sustainable success.

How can hiring help companies achieve both stability and growth goals?

In today’s fast-paced landscape, companies need new hires who possess strong critical thinking skills and the ability to quickly adapt to rapidly advancing technologies. As the industry continues to transform, especially with the integration of digital solutions and automation, it’s crucial to bring in talent who can navigate these changes while thinking strategically to solve complex problems.

At Brenntag, as a leading distributor, we play an integral role in connecting raw material suppliers with end-user markets. The value of hiring individuals who can quickly learn the nuances of those markets – understanding everything from supply chain dynamics to customer needs – cannot be overstated. People who quickly grasp these market dynamics become invaluable assets, not only to our company but also to our suppliers and, most importantly, our customers.

If you would like to discuss any of the topics raised in this piece or if you need support with your leadership resourcing strategy, please get in touch with Matt Harman on: matt.harman@beaumontbailey.com.