Beiersdorf AG is investing in the Swiss start-up company DePoly SA. The company has developed a chemical recycling technology for currently non-recyclable plastic and polyester waste streams. With this investment, Beiersdorf is supporting the development of new recycling solutions for packaging in the cosmetics industry.
Beiersdorf AG is investing in the Swiss start-up DePoly SA via its Oscar&Paul Venture Capital Unit. Founded in 2020, the company has developed an innovative chemical recycling technology. In contrast to mechanical processes, this technology enables, mixed consumer and industrial waste streams that are difficult to recycle, z. The aim is to convert mixed plastics, mixed paints, contaminated plastic waste and polyester-based fabrics and fibres back into their main raw materials. The parties have agreed not to disclose the financial details of the investment.
„The process developed by DePoly can be used to produce pioneering packaging materials for the cosmetics industry and the requirements prevailing there. We firmly believe in the potential of this technology, as it closes a crucial gap in the circular utilisation of PET by maintaining the desired quality standards.“
Michael Becker, Vice President Global Packaging Development R&D at Beiersdorf
As part of its Care Beyond Skin sustainability agenda, Beiersdorf is interested in new solutions that minimise CO2-balance of products and support the recyclability of materials. The recycling technology developed by DePoly a conversion of the substances at room temperature and standard pressure before. The process is therefore very energy-efficient.
„Our technology has the potential to fundamentally change the life cycle of PET plastics and strengthen global efforts to tackle the climate problem. We are very pleased that Beiersdorf AG and other strategic investors are supporting us in this round to implement our solution on a larger scale.“
Samantha Anderson, CEO and co-founder of DePoly.
DePoly's CHF 12.3 million (approximately EUR 12.6 million) seed financing round was conducted jointly with BASF Venture Capital and Wingman Ventures, with participation from Beiersdorf, Infinity Recycling, CIECH Ventures and others. The proceeds of the financing round will enable DePoly to, accelerate the scale-up and development of its depolymerisation process and build a demonstration plant. The plant is expected to go into operation in 2024.
In the spirit of Beiersdorf's founding fathers, Oscar Troplowitz and Paul Beiersdorf, the Oscar&Paul Beiersdorf Venture Capital Unit invests in innovative companies and start-ups. The aim of the unit is to create mutual value and jointly drive forward pioneering technologies and skincare innovations.
Source: Beiersdorf
