Industry News

Ecolab CEO Joins Others in Open ‘De-escalation’ Letter

More than 60 CEOs of Minnesota-based companies call for "immediate" action and state, local and federal officials to work together.

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Minnesota Business Partnership and Greater MSP, released a letter on behalf of more than 60 chief executive officers of Minnesota-based companies. Ecolab’s Christophe Beck, chairman and CEO, is a signatory.

Ecolab, a major player in I&I cleaning with leadership in water and hygiene, is based in St. Paul, MN.

The letter, dated Jan. 25, 2026 and shared on the Minnesota Business Partnership website, addressed the tensions in the Minneapolis area stemming from immigration enforcement activity and two US citizens who were killed by ICE officials.

The letter states:

“The business community in Minnesota prides itself in providing leadership and solving problems to ensure a strong and vibrant state. The recent challenges facing our state have created widespread disruption and tragic loss of life. For the past several weeks, representatives of Minnesota’s business community have been working every day behind the scenes with federal, state and local officials to advance real solutions. These efforts have included close communication with the Governor, the White House, the Vice President and local mayors. There are ways for us to come together to foster progress.  

With yesterday’s tragic news, we are calling for an immediate deescalation of tensions and for state, local and federal officials to work together to find real solutions.  

We have been working for generations to build a strong and vibrant state here in Minnesota and will do so in the months and years ahead with equal and even greater commitment. In this difficult moment for our community, we call for peace and focused cooperation among local, state and federal leaders to achieve a swift and durable solution that enables families, businesses, our employees, and communities across Minnesota to resume our work to build a bright and prosperous future.”

Other CEOs who signed represented Target, Cargil, General Mills, Hormel and more.

Ecolab is ranked No. 5 on Happi’s 2025 Top 50 Report,

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