HarperLove acquires ChromaScape’s corrugated packaging products to expand adhesives platform

CANADA – HarperLove, an HBM Holdings company, has acquired ChromaScape’s corrugated products business, adding LBX, CorrMax and WaterGuard specialty chemical lines to strengthen its packaging adhesives platform and deepen customer relationships across the corrugated packaging industry.

The transaction, announced on 18 August 2026, brings products used by corrugated box makers, including LBX, a borax and caustic substitute for starch batches; CorrMax, additives aimed at improving performance; and WaterGuard, a brand of wet-strength resins. 

Financial terms were not disclosed. 

Strategic Expansion in the Corrugated Sector

HarperLove President and CEO Kenny Messer stated that the acquisition is a natural fit for the company and another step forward in its long-term growth strategy, adding that ChromaScape has built strong relationships with corrugators across key markets. 

By combining those relationships with HarperLove’s technical expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and commitment to customer service, the company can deliver even greater value to its customers. 

The acquisition broadens HarperLove’s reach within the corrugated packaging industry and enhances its ability to support customers across additional regions. 

The integration of ChromaScape’s product lines into HarperLove’s existing portfolio creates a more comprehensive offering for corrugated converters, who increasingly seek single-source suppliers for adhesive and chemical solutions.

Strengthening HBM Holdings’ Packaging Adhesives Platform

The acquisition further builds HBM Holdings’ packaging adhesives platform, with HarperLove positioned as a platform serving manufacturers whose operations depend on adhesive performance, production efficiency and consistency. 

The deal fits HBM Holdings’ broader strategy of acquiring and developing middle-market industrial companies serving essential industries. 

The acquired business was formerly known as CEL Chemical and had been operating as ChromaScape’s corrugated products division since 2022. 

HBM Holdings’ portfolio includes MLC, Control Devices, Schafer Industries and Calcium Products, spanning multiple industrial sectors and providing stability across economic cycles.

Product Portfolio and Industry Applications

LBX provides an alternative to borax and caustic materials in corrugated starch formulations, while the CorrMax portfolio is designed to enhance manufacturing performance. 

WaterGuard addresses wet-strength requirements, adding another specialty capability to HarperLove’s product lineup. 

Corrugated packaging manufacturing relies on starch-based adhesives and specialty chemical additives to maintain production speeds and achieve required strength and performance characteristics. 

The acquisition also gives HarperLove an opportunity to leverage its manufacturing and technical support infrastructure across a larger customer base. 

Messer added that the company is excited to welcome these customers and look forward to adding new capabilities and talent to the HarperLove team.

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