Conroe, Texas, October 16, 2026 – Oleon, a global leader in oleochemical solutions and a subsidiary of the international agro-industrial group Avril, yesterday officially inaugurated its new esterification facility in Conroe, Texas. The investment marks a significant milestone in Oleon’s North American growth strategy and reinforces its commitment to serving customers with locally manufactured, high-performance, bio-based solutions.
The inauguration celebrated the successful completion and commissioning of a new esterification unit, which became fully operational in September 2026. With the addition of esterification capabilities to the site’s existing blending, filling, packaging, warehousing and logistics activities, Conroe now offers a fully integrated manufacturing platform serving key sectors including lubricants, oil & gas and industrial applications.
A Strategic Investment In North America
Located in the heart of the U.S. chemical and energy corridor, Conroe was selected for its proximity to customers, access to raw materials, transportation networks and skilled talent. The site further strengthens Oleon’s ability to provide local manufacturing, greater supply chain resilience and shorter lead times for customers throughout North America.
Antoine Prevost, CEO of Oleon: “North America is a key market for Oleon, and this investment brings us closer to our customers. Local production allows us to respond faster to their needs, strengthen our service and work alongside them in developing high-performance solutions. At the same time, Conroe builds on Oleon’s expertise in oleochemistry and our commitment to creating solutions based on renewable raw materials.”
North America represents a key strategic market for Oleon, particularly in the lubricants and oil & gas industries, where demand for high-performance specialty esters continues to grow.
David Van De Gejuchte, Plant Manager of Oleon Conroe: “The new esterification unit gives us the flexibility to manufacture a broad portfolio of specialty esters and tailor-made formulations here in North America. These products serve applications ranging from lubricants, drilling and hydraulic fluids and environmentally acceptable lubricants to rheology modifiers, emulsifiers, electric vehicle fluids and thermal management solutions. Combined with our existing capabilities in Conroe, this creates a strong, integrated manufacturing platform for our customers.”
“North America is a key market for Oleon, and this investment brings us closer to our customers."
Advancing Sustainable Chemistry
The new facility showcases Oleon’s expertise in oleochemistry, a branch of chemistry that transforms vegetable oils and animal fats into advanced industrial solutions. Unlike traditional petrochemicals, which rely on fossil-based feedstocks, oleochemical products are derived from renewable resources and are often biodegradable, helping customers reduce their environmental footprint without compromising performance.
By producing these solutions locally in Texas, Oleon also significantly reduces transportation distances and associated emissions, further contributing to a more sustainable supply chain.
Official Inauguration Ceremony
The inauguration brought together employees, customers, partners, local stakeholders and representatives from Oleon and Avril to celebrate the site’s expansion and future ambitions.
The event featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, a guided tour of the facility and an overview of the new esterification technology and integrated manufacturing capabilities. Industry experts also shared insights on market dynamics, sustainability, feedstock developments, innovation, supply chain resilience and emerging industry trends. The program concluded with a networking event for customers, partners and community stakeholders.
Positive Impact For Conroe And Montgomery County
The investment reinforces Conroe’s position as a strategic manufacturing hub and demonstrates confidence in the region’s workforce, infrastructure and business environment. In addition to creating skilled employment opportunities, the facility supports a broad network of local suppliers, contractors, logistics providers and service partners, contributing to the local economy. Oleon is also committed to operating safely and responsibly, with the well-being of its employees and the surrounding community as a key priority. In line with its purpose, Serving the Earth, the Conroe team aims to be an active partner in the local community through initiatives such as volunteering with the Montgomery County Food Bank and other local engagement activities.
