SPF competitive landscape assessment

ADI performed a comprehensive review of vertically integrated spray polyurethane foam (SPF) producers, mapping the MDI and polyol supply chains. The study analyzed feedstock advantages in the U.S. Gulf Coast versus China and evaluated the risk of channel conflict between MDI suppliers and independent system houses. Strategic implications focused on price discipline and end-use diversification into commercial construction and midstream oil & gas.

The client

Global building materials company

The situation

A manufacturer sought to understand the competitive advantages and pricing strategies of vertically integrated foam producers.

ADI’s contributions

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Integrated cost modeling

Analysis of benzene and natural gas feedstocks established a production cost advantage for China-based MDI assets.

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Forward integration assessment

Interviews with system houses and distributors revealed the mixed results of MDI producers competing with their own customers.

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Pricing strategy benchmarks

Sourcing of polymeric MDI and polyol price ranges established volume-based discount thresholds for strategic accounts.

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Application market segmentation

Mapping MDI end-markets showed that insulation accounts for only one-third of demand, limiting SPF’s impact on raw material pricing.

Key outcomes

  • Realignment of competitive positioning based on the low share of SPF demand in the broader MDI market and observed price discipline.
Client Results
ADI was very responsive to our requirements and effective in performing a market assessment for our new technology. They brought deep market knowledge and helped us identify our technology’s value through a significant amount of knowledge transfer.
David Hatrick VP, Innovation, Huntsman Advanced Materials

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