Recent developments
Market conditions
Symrise reported a slight organic decline and reaffirmed guidance, with Scent & Care impacted by lower UV filters. Croda’s Q1 sales were in line with guidance, supported by Beauty Actives and Fragrances & Flavours. Dow reported net sales down 6%, while Performance Materials & Coatings was flat on volume gains and lower fixed costs.
Capacity and feedstocks
BASF commissioned world‑scale menthol and linalool capacities in Ludwigshafen and a citral plant in Zhanjiang, strengthening aroma ingredient supply chains. Evonik and Fuhua completed a specialty hydrogen peroxide plant in Leshan for cosmetics and adjacent uses.
Bio‑based and partnerships
WACKER and Amyris agreed to co‑develop bio‑based functional ingredients and molecular building blocks for personal care. Brenntag signed an exclusive deal for Insempra’s precision‑fermented Omega‑7 biolipid for global beauty customers. Brenntag will exclusively distribute Shinehigh’s supramolecular actives across major regions, adding AI‑assisted designed options for formulators.
Ingredient innovation pipeline
BASF launched NeoHelix Regenerate and SkinNexus Collag3n, introducing precision peptide and recombinant Collagen III options for dermal renewal. Croda introduced Matrixyl Neolide, a controlled‑release peptide designed to simplify development and extend on‑skin delivery. Clariant released Hostapon CT solid, a 90% active, salt‑free taurate surfactant for mild, clear systems. Elkem added eco‑designed silicone elastomers in a biobased carrier.
Corporate and distribution
dsm‑firmenich agreed to sell Action Pin, focusing its Perfumery & Beauty portfolio. James Robinson appointed Mitsui Fine Chemicals as exclusive distributor of Jarocol hair dyes in Japan.