Sika

Sika transformed a waterproofing additive invented in 1910 into a $11B+ specialty chemicals empire through patient geographic expansion and application diversity. The company doesn't sell cement - it sells the chemicals that make concrete stronger, more durable, faster-curing, or waterproof. This strategy targets the high-value-added portion of construction while avoiding commodity competition. Sika's growth follows biological invasion patterns: enter a new geography (China, India, Brazil), establish distribution partnerships, acquire local players for market access, then introduce global product portfolio. With operations in 100+ countries, the company proves that in B2B chemicals, systematic geographic rollout beats breakthrough innovation - you win by being locally present when customers need you.