In the rapidly evolving landscape of the chemical manufacturing industry, MERYT has distinguished itself as a leader in innovation, sustainability, and strategic growth. Recently named one of the ‘Best Companies to Watch 2024’ by CIO Bulletin, MERYT continues to make significant strides in the Middle East and beyond.

From Spain to the World: The Beginnings of MERYT

MERYT’s journey began in 2016 with the founding of MERYT Catalysts & Innovation by Dr. Meritxell Vila-Fontes in Spain. What started as a vision to revolutionize the catalysis industry quickly grew into a robust enterprise known for its cutting-edge technologies and commitment to sustainability. Dr. Vila-Fontes assembled a team of experts dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what catalysts could achieve, particularly in enhancing the efficiency and environmental performance of industrial processes.

From its inception, MERYT Catalysts & Innovation focused on developing advanced materials for the refining and petrochemical industries, creating solutions that not only met but exceeded the evolving demands of the market. The company’s dedication to quality and innovation soon earned it a strong reputation in Spain, laying the groundwork for its future expansion.

Strategic Expansion into the Middle East

Recognizing the vast potential in the Middle East, MERYT made a bold move in 2023 by establishing MERYT Chemicals in the UAE. This strategic decision was driven by the region’s increasing demand for advanced chemical solutions and its status as a global hub for the energy and industrial sectors. MERYT Chemicals was founded with the objective of bringing MERYT’s expertise closer to its clients in the Middle East, ensuring more responsive service and the ability to tailor solutions to local needs.

Exploring Strategic Projects in Saudi Arabia

In 2024, MERYT Chemicals is actively exploring opportunities to expand its presence in Saudi Arabia, a key market within the Middle East. The company is currently in negotiations with a prominent local Saudi firm to potentially establish a joint venture for the construction of a state-of-the-art catalyst manufacturing plant in Dammam. When finalized, this project would significantly enhance MERYT’s production capabilities in the region.

Additionally, MERYT plans to develop a cutting-edge Research Center for Catalysts in Dhahran Techno Valley. This center is envisioned as a hub for innovation, where advanced research will drive the development of new catalyst technologies tailored to meet both current and future market needs. The center will play a critical role in MERYT’s ongoing efforts to remain at the forefront of the industry.

MERYT greatly values the knowledge and key contributions of local partners. The company is strongly committed to contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the IKTVA program, which aims to boost local economic growth and development. By aligning with these initiatives, MERYT is dedicated to supporting the sustainable progress of the Kingdom and adding value to the local economy.

Innovation and Sustainability at the Core

MERYT’s growth has always been underpinned by a commitment to sustainability. From the outset, the company has integrated environmentally responsible practices into its operations, ensuring that its innovations contribute positively to the global push for greener industrial processes. The planned facilities in Saudi Arabia will be designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating energy-efficient technologies and processes that minimize waste and emissions.

Moreover, MERYT places a strong emphasis on continuous improvement and innovation. By investing in research and development and fostering collaborations with leading academic and industrial partners, the company ensures it remains at the forefront of the catalysis industry. The Dhahran Techno Valley Research Center will play a crucial role in this, driving the development of new technologies that meet the ever-changing demands of the market.

Strategic Partnerships and Future Growth

MERYT’s success in the Middle East is also a result of its strategic partnerships. The company has built strong relationships with key players in the region, enabling it to navigate complex regulatory environments and expand its market presence. These partnerships are essential not only for the successful execution of current projects but also for MERYT’s long-term growth strategy in the region.

As MERYT continues to explore and negotiate potential partnerships, it remains committed to expanding its product portfolio and enhancing its service offerings. This commitment aims to meet the growing demand for innovative and sustainable catalysts and adsorbents solutions across the Middle East. The combination of advanced technology, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to sustainability positions MERYT as a leader in the industry, ready to seize new opportunities and tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

Dr. Meritxell Vila-Fontes: Catalyzing Industry Innovation and Excellence at MERYT

Dr. Meritxell Vila-Fontes, the visionary Founder and CEO of MERYT, holds a PhD in Chemical Sciences with a specialty in Chemical Engineering from the University of Barcelona. Her distinguished career began at REPSOL’s Escombreras Research Center in Cartagena, where she delved into ion exchange catalytic resins for the synthesis of MTBE/ETBE. Over the years, Dr. Vila gained extensive experience in pilot plants, focusing on refining processes such as diesel hydrotreatment and gasoline hydrodesulfurization. Her roles at the REPSOL refinery in Cartagena included Quality Control Laboratory, Process Department and coordination of Solomon studies. She was responsible of industrial tests for new technologies and Catalysts coordinator of the refinery.

In 2011, Dr. Vila transitioned to IMCD Spain, a leading distributor of specialty chemicals, where she served as Product and Project Manager. Here, she represented top chemical companies in catalysts and adsorbents across Spain and Portugal, further honing her expertise.

In February 2016, Dr. Vila took a bold step by founding MERYT Catalysts & Innovation. Her aim was to leverage her extensive knowledge and experience to deliver exceptional catalysts and adsorbents to refining and petrochemical clients. In 2023, she founded MERYT Chemicals in United Arab Emirates to expand the company in Middle East. Under her leadership, MERYT has become synonymous with cutting-edge solutions and unparalleled technical support, setting new standards in the industry.

“With plans to build a Catalysts Manufacturing Plant and a Research Center, MERYT aims to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by driving innovation and contributing to local economic development.”