A new Group Biotechnology Research Center has been opened near Munich.  Clariant, a leader in specialty chemicals, hosted a ceremony in which the key to the facility was symbolically handed over to CEO Hariolf Kottmann and the Head of Clariant’s Group Biotechonology Andre Koltermann.

“Alongside the Clariant Innovation Center (CIC) in Frankfurt, the new Clariant Biotech Center (CBC) is another important global research facility for our company”, emphasized Hariolf Kottmann in an address delivered to over 100 representatives from the worlds of politics and business. He went on to outline the importance of Bavaria, and in particular the greater Munich area, as a leading research and development powerhouse in the field of biotechnology.

“Industrial biotechnology is one of the key industries of the 21st century. With Clariant located in Bavaria, we may claim to be home for one of the most outstanding international companies in this sector. The inauguration of this new Biotechnology Center in Planegg is visible testimony to the importance of Bavaria as a center of research,” says Ilse Aigner, the Bavarian Minister for Economic Affairs

The new facility comes as a result of recent expansion in the company’s activities.  They will now employ approximately 100 staff members working in over 6000 square meters of space created for research work.

“Establishing a dedicated research center for biotechnology in its own building right at the heart of one of Europe’s biggest biotech hubs is doing far more than just sending out a clear statement – it underpins Clariant’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and profitable growth”, explains André Koltermann.

Since 2006, the Group Biotechnology has successfully been involved with renewable raw materials. They maintain a strong focus on the development of sustainable bio- based products and processes in the field of chemicals and biofuels.