Star Step Performance Coatings Acquired DAAS & Chemicals
The Hinsdale-based company expanded its manufacturing footprint into Europe and Asia with the acquisition of DAAS.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Business Strategy
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Star Step Performance Coatings Group completed its acquisition of DAAS & Chemicals on October 12, 2026. This move integrates the Pordenone, Italy-based firm into Star Step's portfolio to bolster its presence in international markets.
Why it matters
Star Step sought this acquisition to gain a manufacturing foothold in Europe and Asia while securing leadership in specialized wood coatings and R&D. The strategy aims to leverage shared technical resources across a global footprint.
The combined entity generates approximately $80 million in annual revenue and employs a total of 250 people. DAAS & Chemicals currently serves a customer base spanning more than 60 countries.
The players
Star Step Performance Coatings Group
An Illinois-based industrial firm specializing in high-performance coatings that is aggressively expanding its international manufacturing capabilities.
DAAS & Chemicals
A coating specialist headquartered in Pordenone, Italy, that provides specialized chemical and wood coating products to clients worldwide.
Carlo Della Toffola
He continues to serve as the General Manager of DAAS following the transition.
Stefano Antoniazzi
He remains with the organization as a Strategic Advisor to maintain continuity.
BDO Milan
This professional services firm provided the essential legal and due diligence advisory work required to finalize the transaction.
The details
Star Step integrated DAAS & Chemicals into its portfolio to pool commercial and technical capabilities, though existing management will remain in place to ensure operational continuity. The deal was supported by BDO Milan, which served as legal counsel and due diligence advisor for Star Step.
Timeline
October 12, 2026: The transaction officially closed.
October 13, 2026: The acquisition was publicly announced.
Market Landscape
This move accelerates Star Step's entry into the European and Asian markets, mirroring a trend where specialty chemical firms seek to outpace rivals through targeted geographic expansion. It positions the company to compete more effectively by scaling its R&D and manufacturing capacity globally.
For existing customers, operations will remain steady as current management stays in place to maintain established relationships and service levels. The integration of technical resources may eventually lead to a wider availability of advanced wood coating products globally.
The takeaway
This acquisition highlights the ongoing importance of regional manufacturing hubs in maintaining global competitiveness for chemical companies. Investors and industry participants should watch for further consolidation as Star Step looks to grow its footprint in the Italian market.
What happens next
Star Step has indicated that it plans to pursue additional acquisitions within the Italian market in the near future.
Further reading
For more on industry consolidation trends, visit our Business Strategy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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