“On November 13, we completed the acquisition of Hercules Inc., representing a pivotal step in achieving our objective to create a major, global specialty chemical company. This is a very exciting time in Ashland’s history, as well as a landmark event for our combined employees, customers, shareholders and all those with whom we interact. I would like to offer a warm welcome to our new employees from Hercules and to say we are proud to have you as members of the Ashland team. Together, our united company now begins the work of building a strong new future, and we are confident our people, technologies, products and services will sustain our growth for years to come.” – Jim O’Brien, Chairman & CEO