Givaudan opens Biotechnology Innovation Centre in Toulouse to boost beauty ingredient R&D

FRANCE – Givaudan has inaugurated its new White Biotechnology Innovation Centre (BIC) in Toulouse, France, marking a significant step in advancing high-precision beauty ingredient development. 

This cutting-edge facility is designed to enhance Givaudan’s Active Beauty business by accelerating research and development and enabling the creation of innovative, sustainable cosmetic ingredients that address evolving consumer demands.

The Toulouse centre integrates seamlessly with Givaudan’s existing biotechnology R&D sites in Orsay and Pomacle, forming a robust innovation ecosystem. 

It includes state-of-the-art laboratories specifically outfitted for white biotechnology processes such as fermentation and biocatalysis. 

These labs empower the efficient scaling and commercialization of new scientific concepts into next-generation beauty ingredients.

White biotechnology at Givaudan uses environmentally friendly, nature-inspired processes involving microorganisms and enzymes to produce active cosmetic molecules. 

This approach reduces reliance on traditional chemistry, minimizes environmental impact, and supports sustainability. 

The new centre embodies Givaudan’s 2030 strategy to pioneer sustainable, scientifically backed beauty innovations.

Gilles Andrier, Givaudan CEO, emphasized the centre’s role, stating, “Opening the White Biotechnology Innovation Centre in Toulouse is a milestone in Givaudan’s strategy to pioneer sustainable and scientifically supported cosmetic ingredients.”

“This new centre reinforces Givaudan’s global footprint, enhancing collaboration across our different sites to co-create the future of beauty, in line with our 2030 strategy.”

The site’s foundation on sustainability and innovation positions Givaudan at the forefront of transforming beauty through nature and science synergy, meeting consumer expectations for efficacy and environmental responsibility.

Concurrently, Givaudan has expanded its U.S. footprint by investing USD 215 million to build a new, state-of-the-art flavour and fragrance production facility in Reading, Ohio, near Cincinnati. 

This facility, the most significant U.S. investment for Givaudan in recent years, underscores the company’s strategic commitment to the North American market and aligns with its 2030 expansion strategy. 

The plant will occupy 258,000 square feet within a larger 107,000 square feet land area designated for future growth, reflecting plans for scalability.

A significant rationale behind this local production expansion is to avoid the impact of U.S. tariffs on imports, thereby reducing costs and supply risks for Givaudan’s food industry division, which already operates 17 sites across the U.S. and Canada. 

The facility is designed with advanced sustainable technologies aimed at maximizing production efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. 

Construction is expected to last approximately 18 months, with full operations anticipated by 2027.

This new plant will generate over 300 jobs in technical, operational, and managerial roles, supporting the local economy and talent development. 

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