As the world emerges from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the global economy is seeing some positive indicators for growth, with sustained high demand and increases in new orders for all major subsectors. 

According to a new survey conducted by the World Economic Forum and Ipsos, there is widespread support among workers across the globe for workplace mandates to control the spread of COVID.

According to a recent report from Grand View Research, the global chemical distribution market was estimated to be $247.1 billion last year and is projected to see robust growth (5.4% CAGR) to 2028. The distribution of specialty chemicals, such as those used in CASE (coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers) and other sectors, is expected to be the fastest-growing segment of the market, reaching $139 billion in that timeframe.

What do distributors of raw materials and chemicals consider to be the primary challenges facing materials producers and purchasers? How can distributors help companies all along the supply chain understand and navigate the various forces impacting the industry? To find answers to these questions (and others), we reached out to leaders in the distribution industry.

Not surprisingly, the global economic recovery is continuing more quickly in regions where COVID-19 is under control and vaccinations have been widely rolled out. After an estimated contraction of 3.3% in 2020, the global economy is projected to grow at 6% in 2021, moderating to 4.4% in 2022, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Welcome to the 2021 ASI Top 20! Every year, we explore the leading worldwide manufacturers of adhesives and sealants to compile this list. In considering the rankings, we focus on sales figures (and other details) for finished adhesives and sealants, as well as related products such as tapes.