Switzerland-based specialty chemicals manufacturer Clariant International Ltd. is investing 50
million euros to build a 23,000-square-meter innovation center at its Frankfurt site to expand its
global research and development activities. The Clariant Innovation Center will house 500 employees
and will work closely with the company’s satellite locations in Gendorf, Germany, Lamotte, France,
and Suzano, Brazil, along with 40 application centers globally. The center is scheduled to be
completed by the end of 2012.
“After the completion of the successful restructuring, innovation in combination with an
increased strategic focus on profitable growth will be a key cornerstone for our company,” said
Hariolf Kottmann, CEO, Clariant AG. “The goal is to establish Clariant as an innovation leader in
the field of specialty chemicals within the next few years.”
The Clariant Innovation Center will feature an open architectural office and laboratory
concept that combines the chemical research and development activities belonging to the Group
Technology Services structure with application-oriented laboratories and the technical marketing
functions of several business units. The new building will house Clariant’s Chemical Analysis and
New Business Development and Intellectual Property Management units as well as the Patent
department.
“Our product innovations will also address current megatrends such as renewable energies,
energy efficiency and renewable resources with a view to opening up new business opportunities
beyond current markets,” said Christian Kohlpaintner, Executive Committee member and head of
research and development, Clariant. “A market- and customer-focus will remain at the center of our
activities.”
January 21, 2011