“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.
Disclaimer: The material contained on this Podcast is provided by The Chemical Company (TCC) solely for informational purposes. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up-to-date. The information in the Podcast is intended solely as a general educational aid. TCC is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of TCC policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by TCC. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by TCC employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of TCC or any of its officials. All statements, comments and opinions presented are made in the context of robust dialog and freedom of expression”. TCC assumes no responsibility for any consequence relating directly or indirectly to any action or inaction you take based on the information in the Podcast. While TCC strives to keep the information in the Podcast accurate, complete, and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee, and will not be responsible for, any damage or loss related to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information. TCC assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the Podcast. The information contained on the Podcast is provided entirely on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness. TCC is not responsible for any changes to the information provided herein. TCC is not providing legal advice and does not assume liability for detrimental reliance on the information provided herein as conditions are subject to change. Please consult with your legal counsel regarding the applicable tariffs.
