Laboratories Sérobiologiques Extends Site in Pulnoy, France

LS is one of the leading suppliers of active ingredients for cosmetics, developing advanced technologies and high-quality products based on in-depth scientific knowledge and a capacity for innovation.

12/11/08 Laboratoires Sérobiologiques (LS), the active ingredients business of Cognis Care Chemicals, has begun to enhance its production site in Pulnoy, France. With this step, LS wants to further establish its site in France as a technology center for the research, development, and production of high-performance active ingredients. The project represents an investment of more than seven million euros, and should be completed in 2010. It will enable global specialty chemicals supplier Cognis and its customers to better meet the market requirements of the future. A major factor in the decision to invest in the Pulnoy site is the increasing demand for high-performing active ingredients for the cosmetics market.

LS is one of the leading suppliers of active ingredients for cosmetics, developing advanced technologies and high-quality products based on in-depth scientific knowledge, a capacity for innovation, a commitment to sustainability, and a strong customer focus. Through this investment, LS ensures that its production and research facilities remain on the cutting edge while guaranteeing environmentally sound production practices, and so safeguards its long-term competitiveness. Customers will benefit from even higher standards of product quality and solutions that create competitive advantages in their markets. LS anticipates the cosmetics market to change at a very fast pace, and employs a multidisciplinary research and development team of more than 40 specialists.

Comments Salvatore Gargano, Business Director Laboratoires Sérobiologiques: “This important investment is part of our global growth strategy to consolidate our market-leading position in Europe and strengthen our growing position as an active-ingredient partner to personal care companies around the world. If we are to fully leverage our R&D expertise and in-depth understanding of the market for cosmetic actives, then we need state-of-the-art production technology and higher capacity. Our track record shows our approach is the right one: We have recorded double-digit growth in recent years.”

The project involves both the streamlining of production processes, and the extension of research and production facilities. It will strengthen LS’ “two plants in one plant” concept with two totally independent liquid production workshops, using similar technologies. This will guarantee continuity of production – and therefore continuity of supply for customers. By implementing the most advanced technologies and concepts, the project will further reduce the environmental impacts of the ISO 14001 certified production site, especially regarding energy consumption. For many years, the site has been continuously improved and the high level of quality is reflected in its ISO 9001 certification. With the project, LS goes another step further and facilitates the compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for cosmetics.

Isabelle Benoit, Global Marketing Manager Laboratoires Sérobiologiques, explains: “We are constantly looking to improve our efficiency and create an environment in which new ideas and technologies can be developed. At the same time we want to guarantee long-term sustainability at all levels. This investment will allow us to further increase customer satisfaction with our levels of quality, responsiveness, and innovation.”

LS is part of Cognis since April 1999 and has steadily and significantly expanded its activities globally and improved its profitability. Its growth is founded on innovative technologies, the highest quality standards, and environmentally sound practices.