Quaker Houghton (NYSE:KWR) (NYSE: KWR) is a global specialty chemical company that develops, manufactures and sells process fluids for the metalworking, automotive, aluminum rolling, steel, mining, aerospace, and other industrial markets. The company’s portfolio encompasses metal removal and metal forming fluids, heat transfer fluids, release agents, water treatment solutions, rust preventives and anti-corrosion products. These offerings are designed to optimize production processes, enhance part quality and reduce environmental impact across a wide range of manufacturing operations.
Founded on the combined heritage of Quaker Chemical Corporation (established in 1918) and Houghton International (established in 1868), Quaker Houghton was formed in 2016 through a merger that leveraged more than a century of expertise in industrial fluids and process chemistry. This strategic union expanded the company’s geographic reach and technical capabilities, creating a diversified supplier able to serve both global OEMs and regional manufacturers. Since its formation, Quaker Houghton has continued to grow through a mix of organic innovation and targeted acquisitions.
The company’s R&D centers, located across North America, Europe and Asia, focus on developing high-performance chemistries that address evolving customer needs for sustainability, safety and cost efficiency. Quaker Houghton’s product lines include aqueous and semi-synthetic metalworking fluids, oil-based neat cutting oils, specialty cleaners, surface preparation solutions, rolling and stamping lubricants, as well as closed-loop water treatment and recirculation systems. Its technical service teams work closely with customers to tailor fluid formulations and optimize process parameters.
With operations in more than 60 countries and over 100 manufacturing sites worldwide, Quaker Houghton delivers local support backed by global supply chain capabilities. The company serves end markets such as automotive, aerospace, steel, aluminum, electronics, energy, mining and general industrial manufacturing. Its executive leadership team brings decades of experience in specialty chemicals and international business, guiding the company’s focus on innovation, operational excellence and sustainable growth.
