Evonik furthers R&D investment to strengthen cosmetics focus
As part of its latest cosmetics move, Evonik has invested close to €17 million in the new construction at the Goldschmidtstraße site in Essen, Germany.
"We want to strengthen our competitive position in the growing global market for cosmetic products,” says Klaus Engel, CEO and chairman of the Executive Board.
Some 90 employees of the Consumer Specialties Business Unit of Evonik will work in the innovation centre, primarily for applications in the cosmetic industry.
Reinforcement
"The new innovation centre and its developments will further reinforce our competitive position in the growing global market for cosmetic products, with particular focus on the requirements of our customers,” continues Engel.
“Our employees in Essen have extensive experience, the necessary know-how, and creativity to meet the expectations of our customers.”
The new facility covers a total area of approximately 5,000 square meters on five floor levels and includes both laboratories and office space.
An Evonik statement says that it sees research and development as an important driver of sustainable growth, with 2012 R&D spending amounting to €393 million, which was 8 per cent more than in the previous year.
Education and innovation
The company has also stepped up its cooperation with the University of Duisburg-Essen with the sponsorship of a new junior professorship and funding for ten new doctoral scholarships, which should also help developments and innovations for future cosmetics products.
"The close cooperation with scientific institutions and universities at our sites is essential for us and supports the high pace of innovation," comments Engel.
The junior professorship in the department of chemistry is to be sponsored for a period of six years, and will focus primarily on macromolecular and interfacial chemistry, as these competencies play an important role for the Consumer Specialties Business Unit; which among other products, manufactures cosmetic ingredients, emulsifiers, oils, conditioners, and performance additives.
