A Closer Look: Insights into Glycerin and P&G Chemicals

As the chemical industry navigates ongoing complexities, I am pleased to share insights on the glycerin sector with the expertise of Natalie Caldwell, P&G Chemicals’ Americas Market Strategy Leader, as glycerin is a key product in our portfolio.

The North American glycerin market remains uncertain as it grapples with supply challenges. Domestic production, largely driven by the biodiesel industry, has faced setbacks due to reduced biodiesel output in 2025 following the expiration of tax credits at the end of 2024. There is cautious optimism for biodiesel recovery in 2026 and beyond with the EPA’s proposed increase in the Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) and the inclusion of the 45Z Tax Credit in the One Big Beautiful Bill. It is important to note, however, that RVO is still pending finalization, and its benefits will not be seen until 2026.

In response to decreased local production in 2025, we have seen a rise in imports of refined glycerin in the first half of the year. Global supply chains are expected to be unpredictable due to the recent increase in U.S. tariffs on Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia – set at 19% per the July 31, 2025 Executive Order. This rate and uncertainty over the tariff level down the road raise questions about future trade attractiveness. Additionally, global supply chains continue to face volatility due to geopolitical tensions and the onset of the 2025 hurricane season.

Amid these challenges, P&G Chemicals is committed to providing high-quality glycerin, as a range of carbon footprint solutions from our Cincinnati plant, helping ensure reliable supply year ’round.

There’s no question that experience fosters success. P&G Chemicals has been refining glycerin for more than 160 years, building a solid reputation for reliable, resilient supply and superior customer service. Even as external factors continuously influence our operations and strategy, quality products remain at the forefront of what we do every day. It’s simply part of our approach.

Throughout my time at our Cincinnati glycerin refinery, I witnessed our team’s innovation and agility in complex and changing environments, always prioritizing our customers’ needs for a choice of flexible solutions. With non-GMO, GMP, GFSI and USP certifications, our glycerin is suitable for a wide range of applications, including food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

I have been particularly impressed by how our plant has embraced customer and regulatory audits, showcasing our “Quality in Everything We Do” approach. To maintain a BRCGS A++ rating in 2025, we engaged in an unannounced assessment of our facilities and quality systems, thereby retaining the gold standard score for food safety management.

Despite the long-established history of our manufacturing process, I have been proud to see how unafraid we are to pivot and push to enhance our operational excellence and delivery to customers. Our crew at the plant partners closely with the company’s end-to-end business team to continue driving ownership, accountability and production of solutions that help facilitate sustainable growth.

Our reputation for customer service and reliability is truly an extension of employee ownership on the manufacturing floor. As I reflect on my experience at the Cincinnati plant, I look forward to representing our team and sharing my perspective on the long-standing tradition of glycerin manufacturing.

On behalf of all of us at P&G Chemicals, we appreciate the opportunity to partner with you and provide our trusted products. For more information, feel free to contact us.