"Sustainability guides all our business decisions"

Mr. Satzinger, why did Evonik buy a small biotech company from Barcelona?

When we acquire companies such as Infinitec, we gain a unique opportunity to enhance our portfolio and better serve our value chains. In our life sciences division at Evonik, we have extensive expertise in delivery systems. These are used in a variety of applications such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. We chose Infinitec because we saw the potential to sustainably strengthen our existing business.

You emphasize sustainability. Why is that crucial?

Sustainability guides all our business decisions. The trend toward sustainability is also being driven by our customers in the cosmetics industry and consumers, who are increasingly demanding sustainable solutions. Right now, this means focusing on biodegradability, closing the carbon loop, preserving ecosystems, and reducing our use of natural resources. Infinitec’s portfolio of natural-based active ingredients and several delivery systems reinforces our position as a sustainable specialties partner. In this role, we help our customers to move their operations and solutions into the safe operating space within the planetary boundaries.

What do you now plan to do with the technologies from Infinitec?

We want to enhance our entire product portfolio by leveraging competencies from Infinitec. This will help us open new markets, accelerate growth, and create value. The industry is looking for cosmetic claims that are scientifically substantiated. And the delivery systems from Infinitec can help us meet this need. We can also go further and enhance synergies within our entire Care Solutions business. For example, we can combine delivery systems from Infinitec with natural base extracts from the Swiss company Botanica, which we recently acquired. This helps us provide more unique, tailored solutions to our customers.