The facility, which is located in Arteparc, the regions first business park fully based on circular economy and renewable energies, will provide Brenntag’s customers and suppliers with concepts and prototype development, customized formulation support, technical solutions and stability studies for a broad range of applications.

Brenntag said that it chose Lille for the new Innovation & Application Center due to its proximity to many suppliers and customers in the personal care industry in the region.

According to Brenntag, the company has also very strong links to the university of Lille and cooperates with the Chevreul Institute, which aims to develop research collaborations and services in the field of chemistry and materials.

“The opening of the Lille Center is a further step to execute Brenntag’s ‘Strategy to Win’ by building capabilities and offering innovative services to the regional and global personal care industry. Brenntag Specialties acts as an important link with our customers and suppliers to bring innovation closer to the marketplace. The new center is a great addition to the strong network of now already 18 Personal Care / HI&I Innovation & Application Centres globally and four in the EMEA region,” commented Michael Wilkop, President Personal Care / HI&I Brenntag Specialties EMEA.

“Lille is an ideal location for our Innovation & Application Center, given its thriving ecosystem of R&D partners, technology providers and talent,” said Francois Bouton, director Innovation & Application PC / HI&I Brenntag Specialties EMEA.