June 26 2026, David R Brown

Gapuma Group, a London-based multinational provider of chemical, solvents, foodstuffs, fertilisers and other commodities has acquired an equity stake in Tri-Chem Trading (Pty) Ltd, a fast-growing South African distributor of commodity and specialty chemicals. Tri-Chem's founding leadership has retained a stake in the business and will continue to manage the company.

Our role is not to change what works, but to give the team the sourcing depth, supply chain infrastructure and financial backing to grow faster and serve customers better

Jack Bardakjian
Founder and CEO of Gapuma Group

The partnership extends Gapuma's strategy of building durable, operational businesses across the African continent, and brings the Group's global sourcing and supply chain infrastructure to one of the region's most dynamic chemical distribution markets.

Tri-Chem Trading serves South Africa and the broader African market, supplying commodity and specialty chemicals across mining, coatings, industrial, water treatment, manufacturing and agriculture. Its leadership brings 35 years of combined industry experience, with established supplier networks, long-term customer relationships and a reputation for commercial excellence. The business is built on reliable and cost-effective sourcing, strategic distribution and end-to-end supply chain support.

Jack Bardakjian, Founder and CEO of Gapuma Group, said: “Tri-Chem has built something with real momentum: the right supplier relationships, the right customer base and a clear, disciplined approach to a competitive market. Our role is not to change what works, but to give the team the sourcing depth, supply chain infrastructure and financial backing to grow faster and serve customers better.”

Chris Arnison, Founder and Director of Tri-Chem Trading, said: “This partnership strengthens everything we set out to build. Gapuma's international supply agreements, manufacturing networks and market intelligence complement our knowledge of the South African and African markets.”

About Gapuma Group
Founded in London in 1999, Gapuma Group is an award-winning sourcing, procurement and logistics specialist with global reach. The Group sources products from more than 30 countries and delivers to over 50 countries worldwide, with particular depth of experience across Africa. Operating from its London headquarters, Gapuma serves clients across multiple sectors, including industrial, chemical, agricultural and energy, managing every link in the global supply chain from procurement and finance to logistics and final delivery.

Source(s): Gapuma Press Release

Further Information

Visit: https://gapuma.com