German Chancellor Merkel helps BASF celebrate 150th anniversary

German Chancellor Angela Merkel was among 1,000 distinguished guests who helped BASF celebrate its 150th anniversary yesterday, the company announced.

At the event, BASF reviewed its long and illustrious history with a multimedia presentation that covered its beginnings in dyes followed by ammonia for fertilizer and then plastics. BASF has since expanded its portfolio to include performance products, crop protection and oil and gas.

“One hundred and fifty years is a special company anniversary an opportunity to look back and reflect, but also to look forward,” BASF Board Chairman and Executive Director Kurt Bock said. “Our success today is due in part to the fact that the right course was set years ago. Especially in chemistry, we are constantly building on the achievements of our predecessors.”

“We are pleased that many of you are in attendance from all over the world," Bock said, applauding the company’s customers, suppliers, service providers and partners. “We have worked closely with you for decades, together we have grown, and we have jointly pioneered new technologies and thus expanded into new markets.”

The premiere of the composition “Symphony No. 8: Water Dances,” was a highlight of the celebration. It was composed by Michael Nyman, who was inspired by company sounds BASF employees worldwide collected and submitted in 2014. The symphonic work was performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, London, led by the Spanish conductor Josep Vicent.