Show notes
“The View from Jamestown” Chemical Podcast
Hosted by The Chemical Company
Episode 138 | Surfactants with Neil Burns
Episode 138 is an in-depth discussion on the global surfactants market with Managing Partner, Board Member and Consultant Neil Burns.
Featuring:
Neil Burns
Neil A Burns LLC
https://www.neilaburns.com/
www.thechemco.com
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Produced by:
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Episode Summary:
In Episode 138 of The View from Jamestown Podcast, we welcome Neil Burns for his first appearance to break down the global surfactants market and the key forces shaping the industry in 2026.
From everyday consumer products like detergents and shampoos to large-scale industrial applications, surfactants play a critical role across the global economy. In this episode, we explore what surfactants are, how they’re made, and the complex supply chains behind them.
Neil shares insights into:
The core feedstocks used in surfactant production and where they come from globally
How oil prices, tariffs, and geopolitics are impacting the market
Key industry trends over the past 5 years, including post-COVID shifts
The role of sustainability and alternative feedstocks in future development
Major players in the market—from global producers to emerging innovators
M&A activity and how competitive the industry is becoming
Why surfactants remain a highly consumable, demand-driven product category
What to watch for in the remainder of 2026
We also discuss how branding, formulation, and proprietary technologies influence the market, and why understanding these dynamics is critical for companies operating across the chemical supply chain.
Whether you're in chemical distribution, manufacturing, procurement, or logistics, this episode provides valuable perspective on one of the most essential segments of the chemical industry.
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