Elementis Unveils Innovation Hub in Porto, Portugal, Elevating Personal Care and Performance Specialties

In a strategic move to fortify its global research and development capabilities, Elementis has revealed plans to establish a cutting-edge unit in Porto, Portugal. This new center of excellence, set to open its doors in the first half of 2024, will serve as a showcase for customers across Europe, aligning with Elementis' commitment to advancing breakthroughs in the realms of Personal Care and Performance Specialties.

The Porto unit will not only enhance the existing research and development capacity of Elementis' laboratories in Asia and the Americas but will also serve as a hub for collaborative ventures and sustainable chemistry initiatives.

Recruitment Drive for Top Talent

Elementis is embarking on an extensive recruitment plan, aiming to onboard 100 skilled professionals for this innovative project. The company envisions a diverse team with expertise in Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal, Commercial, Procurement, Research and Development, and Supply Chain.

Anticipating a significant investment, Elementis plans to inject up to 3 million euros into establishing the Porto unit by the end of 2024. Additionally, an annual investment of up to 6 million euros is earmarked for ongoing developments, including personnel, facilities, and state-of-the-art laboratories.

Global Collaboration and Strategic Location

The Porto-based employees will collaborate closely with Elementis teams spread across Europe and the Americas, fostering a seamless global connection. The strategic choice of Porto as the unit's headquarters is attributed to the city's rich talent pool, a business-friendly environment conducive to Elementis' goals, and the robust infrastructure available.

Beyond internal collaboration, Elementis has identified strategic opportunities for partnerships with esteemed institutions, including the possibility of collaboration with the Universidade Católica do Porto. Through collaborations with institutions like the Centre of Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry (CBQF) from the Superior School of Biotechnology, Elementis aims to champion sustainable chemistry, create value, and nurture talent.

With a recruitment drive already in motion and around 40 positions already advertised, Elementis envisions the Porto location as an open and inspiring space for employees and customers alike. The site will serve as a dynamic arena for collaborative demonstrations, presentations, and training sessions. Paul Waterman, CEO of Elementis, emphasized the pivotal role the Porto location will play in achieving Elementis' ambitious plans to launch over 50 new products by 2026. The move signals Elementis' commitment to innovation and sets the stage for a dynamic era of advancements in personal care and performance specialties.