Aquatech Acquires Metichem to Expand Water Solutions

Debashish Mukherjee — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 14:40:00 +0200

Aquatech has completed the acquisition of UAE-based Metito Chemical Solutions (METICHEM), further strengthening its presence in the water treatment sector. Following the transaction, the business will operate as Metichem, an Aquatech company, combining advanced specialty chemical solutions with extensive operations and maintenance expertise to better support customers across the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia.

The acquisition unites Aquatech's international engineering and project delivery capabilities with Metichem's well-established regional experience. This strategic combination is expected to provide customers with more comprehensive water management solutions throughout the entire water lifecycle. Both organizations have a long history of delivering successful projects in markets such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia.

By joining forces, Aquatech and Metichem expand their collective portfolio to include water treatment technologies, specialty chemicals, operations and maintenance services, and digital solutions designed to improve operational efficiency, reliability, and environmental sustainability.

On July 30, more than 300 employees from locations across three continents gathered to celebrate Metichem becoming part of the Aquatech family, marking an important milestone for both companies. The occasion also coincides with Aquatech's 45th anniversary, making the event especially significant.

Mike Abla, Managing Director of Metichem, described the acquisition as the start of an exciting new phase for the company. He expressed appreciation for the dedication of both teams and the warm welcome extended by Aquatech, emphasizing that the partnership establishes a solid platform for future growth and collaboration.

Andrew Parke, Executive Vice President of Services at Aquatech, praised Metichem's customer-focused approach and operational excellence. He noted that Aquatech has great respect for the accomplishments of the company and is eager to work together to build on that success.

Aquatech CEO Devesh Sharma highlighted the shared values and complementary strengths of the two organizations. He stated that the partnership reflects a mutual commitment to customer success and expressed confidence that the combined expertise of both teams will deliver greater innovation and value to clients worldwide.

Customers can expect business continuity throughout the integration process. Existing contracts, service agreements, and customer contacts will remain unchanged, and clients are encouraged to continue working with their current Aquatech or Metichem representatives.

Lake DeForest Recognized as Water Landmark During National Drinking Water Week

Debashish Mukherjee — Thu, 22 May 2025 08:28:00 +0200

Veolia New York Celebrates Lake DeForest’s Landmark Recognition During National Drinking Water Week

In honor of National Drinking Water Week (May 4–10), Veolia New York is celebrating the recent recognition of Lake DeForest Reservoir as an American Water Landmark. This designation, awarded by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), is reserved for historically significant structures such as reservoirs, towers, or facilities that have played a crucial role in the development, supply, or treatment of water.

Chris Graziano, Veolia New York’s Regional President, emphasized Lake DeForest’s importance: “This reservoir is essential to providing Rockland County with a steady supply of drinking water. It has also served as a scenic retreat for generations, supporting recreational activities like hiking, fishing, and bird-watching. We’re honored that AWWA has acknowledged Lake DeForest’s lasting contributions to our region.”

Construction of Lake DeForest began in 1952 and was finalized in 1956. It was named in honor of Benjamin F. DeForest, who once served as president of the Hackensack Water Company—a company that eventually became part of what is now Veolia, after evolving from United Water and SUEZ.

The reservoir sources water from the Hackensack River and nearby tributaries. This water is processed at a neighboring treatment facility, which can handle an average of 10 million gallons daily. Today, the reservoir supplies approximately one-third of the drinking water consumed in Rockland County.

Beyond its role in water supply, Lake DeForest has grown into a treasured recreation area. Through Veolia’s Watershed Recreation Program, more than 800 people annually sign up to enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, and bird-watching between mid-April and late November.

Each year, the community also gathers for Veolia Lake DeForest Day, which features open kayaking on the reservoir and a friendly kayak race among local volunteer fire departments. The event, now in its ninth year, is scheduled for Saturday, June 28.

Veolia’s Commitment to Sustainable Water Solutions
Protecting and maintaining access to clean water has been central to Veolia’s mission for over 170 years. As part of its GreenUp strategy, the company is investing in advanced treatment technologies to combat emerging contaminants. At the Lake DeForest facility, Veolia is currently dedicating $100 million over five years to implement systems that will target PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and improve overall water quality.

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Aquatech Acquires Metichem to Expand Water Solutions

Lake DeForest Recognized as Water Landmark During National Drinking Water Week