HWI introduces a new brand identity reflecting its refractories leadership and global stature as a member of Calderys Group
would combine with Calderys, has unveiled a new brand identity. The new look reflects HWI as a member of
Calderys, the global refractories company’s brand in the Americas.
“The new visual identity of HWI, as a member of Calderys, is a significant step on our journey to form a unified business that incorporates the best of both brands to create a global high-growth leader. We have undertaken this exercise with thoughtful intention to preserve the legacy of the HWI brand in the Americas while reflecting the global stature of the Calderys brand,” said Michel Cornelissen, President and CEO of Calderys Group.
For more than 150 years, HWI has built a legacy of refractories leadership in North America. The brand emerged as HarbisonWalker International in 2014 when three leading US-based companies joined forces, becoming known as HWI. During these years, the Calderys brand was built as Imerys SA’s High Temperature Solutions global business across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Both businesses were purchased by Platinum Equity, which announced in February 2023 that it would combine Calderys and HWI to create one of the world's largest and most comprehensive refractories producers with more product and service options and further investments in technology and customer care.
Elements of the HWI brand combine the visual identities of both companies, with HWI maintaining its well-known acronym and font while adopting the symbolism of the Calderys brand: hands joining together, flames, the caldera of a volcano, and the containing of heat.
Adopting the vibrant orange and black for both logos references the high temperatures in which refractories operate. Assuming the same color scheme strengthens the unity of HWI and Calderys and avoids diluting the brands.
“The new HWI brand reinforces how we unite in many ways beyond products and customers. Our cultures put safety and customers first. We value people while providing quality and innovative products and solutions to our broad customer base, and we embed sustainability in everything we do. We are all aligned on these common priorities as one company,” added Cornelissen.