Omya Inc. is a worldwide distributor of specialty materials and a leading global producer of essential minerals derived from calcium carbonate, dolomite, and perlite. The company was founded in 1884 in Oftringen, Switzerland, where it originally produced window putty from chalk and linseed oil; it remains privately owned and is headquartered in Oftringen. Omya employs approximately 9,000 people and reports annual turnover of CHF 4 billion.
The company operates in more than 50 countries, with 160 plants worldwide and a workforce of around 9,000. Its industrial footprint spans mineral processing and the worldwide distribution of specialty materials to diverse industries, including consumer goods, agriculture, food, pharmaceuticals, personal care and industrial applications. Technical work is supported by 17 laboratories and a portfolio of 325 patent families, with focus areas in mineral processing, materials science, and research and development.
Omya processes calcium carbonate, dolomite and perlite into high-performance ingredients used across those sectors. The company describes a long-term approach to business that prioritises sustainable growth over short-term profits, alongside a stated commitment to innovation, technical excellence and minimising environmental impact.
