Grace at Worms Celebrates 50 Years

The year was 1972, and with 200 employees Grace GmbH began production of chemical drying agents and micronized silica gel at its Worms, Germany site.

Today, 50 years later, Grace at Worms has grown to become the company’s largest manufacturing facility, its Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) headquarters and is among the region’s largest employers with nearly 1,000 employees.

Over its 50-year history, the site has expanded its manufacturing processes and products and is an industry leader in the production of specialty catalysts, refining catalysts and silica-based engineered materials serving customers globally.

The most recent expansion occurred in 2020 with the addition of its new LUDOX^® colloidal silica production line. The current range of products and services manufactured at the site include

FCC catalysts and additives for petroleum refiners, catalysts, supports and technology licensing for polyolefins and specialty chemicals, specialized silica- and silica/alumina-based materials used as process aids, additives and absorbents and pharmaceutical and life science products including silica-based separation media and excipients.

To support workforce needs both at the site and in the region, Grace established an apprenticeship program in 1976. The program has created career pathways for nearly 600 individuals across multiple disciplines that include chemical operators, mechanics, electricians and commercial clerks. What started with one apprentice 46 years ago has grown to be a sought-after opportunity with more than 300 applicants annually vying for 15 apprenticeship slots.

As Grace continues to grow and expand its global footprint, its Worms site – with its talented employees, focus on quality and commitment to customer value – will continue to be a model for excellence and high standards.