Evonik Industries AG was founded on September 12, 2007, in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, after the restructuring of the RAG mining and technology group. RAG retained mining activity, while the new company moved into chemicals, energy, and real estate. Within this structure, specialty chemicals became Evonik’s main focus from the start.
The company’s background is tied to Degussa, founded in Frankfurt am Main in 1873. Degussa produced metals, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, creating one of the industrial lines that were later connected to Evonik. Another predecessor was Hüls AG, founded in Marl, Germany, in 1904, with activity in plastics, synthetic materials, and agricultural chemicals.
In 1968, Ruhrkohle AG was created by combining coal companies of the Ruhr region, adding another layer to the corporate background later linked with RAG. Decades after that consolidation, the restructuring of RAG brought together Degussa, Hüls AG, and other businesses focused on higher-margin products. In 2007, this structure resulted in the formation of Evonik Industries, a company focused on specialty chemicals.
Evonik later operated in more than 100 countries and employed about 30,000 people. Its product range included plastics, catalysts, chemicals, and functional materials. In 2012, the company shifted fully toward specialty chemicals, making this area the basis of its corporate profile and separating the Evonik name from RAG’s broader mining background.
Meaning and History
What is Evonik?
This is a German manufacturer of specialized chemical products. Its portfolio includes amino acids, cosmetic ingredients, polymers, and coatings. The company ranks among the largest in its sector and focuses on high-tech chemical solutions.
2007 – 2016
2016 – 2020
2020 – today
The Evonik logo features a minimalist, futuristic design filled with meaning. At its core is a uniquely styled letter “E,” depicted as a maze of curved lines within a circle. This symbol resembles a puzzle, suggesting the process of solving complex challenges, an idea closely tied to the company’s focus on research and scientific innovation. The labyrinth-like form represents constant exploration and a drive beyond conventional boundaries.
The primary color is a deep violet, conveying innovation and progress. This distinctive hue sets the logo apart from competitors and is strongly associated with science and technology, key areas of Evonik’s operations. The surrounding circle resembles a planet, symbolizing the company’s global reach and ambition.
The word “Evonik” is rendered in a geometric typeface with slightly squared letters and smooth edges. This combination reflects precision and modernity while giving the name a friendly, approachable feel. Below the main wordmark is the slogan “Leading Beyond Chemistry,” in bold, clean sans-serif font. It reinforces the company’s confidence and long-standing expertise.
The name “Evonik” was chosen to highlight the company’s global mindset and commitment to innovation and responsibility in its developments. The logo’s sharp geometry and vivid color palette form a strong, recognizable identity that communicates Evonik’s readiness to meet new technological challenges and pursue groundbreaking discoveries.




