Robertet has invested in Aethera Biotech to boost its expertise in biotech and grow its health and beauty division.
The French fragrance and flavours manufacturer first partnered with the Italian firm – which specialises in developing active ingredients for the cosmetics and health markets – in 2024.
However, the fresh joint venture will combine Aethera Biotech’s advanced platform, proprietary intellectual property, production capabilities and existing product line, with Robertet’s global reach and commercial expertise, the companies said in a statement.
The value of the "progressive" investment has not been disclosed, but it will be completed in two phases over a three-year period, subject to certain conditions.
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“We are pleased to strengthen our partnership with Aethera Biotech, marking a significant step forward for Robertet into the field of biotechnology, a domain with strong long-term potential,” said Jérôme Bruhat, CEO of Robertet.
“This joint venture reflects our conviction that biotech will play an increasingly important role in the development of high-value, sustainable solutions.
“It supports our ambition to reinforce our leadership in naturals while opening new pathways for innovation and growth for our customers.”
The partnership marks a targeted biotech strategy for Robertet and will see the company establish Aethera Biotech as a centre for excellence for future biotech developments across the group.
Founded in 2016, Aethera Biotech has pioneered phyto-complex biotechnologies – plant-derived compounds – using its CROP (Controlled Release of Optimised Plants) platform.
The company’s technology secures production of natural extracts in controlled conditions that are not subject to climatic, agricultural or geopolitical constraints, as well as reducing environmental impact.
The partnership will see Robertet commercialise Aethera Biotech’s portfolio via its global distribution network, in particular in its fragrance division.
“After nearly two years of close collaboration, this next step further advances our vision of ‘Augmented Naturality’ and reflects the strong alignment between two family-owned groups sharing the same values,” said Olivier Maubert, Group Innovation Director and Head of Robertet’s health and beauty division.
“Aethera Biotech’s CROP technology offers a unique and complementary approach to developing natural extracts and active cosmetic ingredients, enabling us to address growing market demand while accelerating innovation in skin science, a key pillar of our health and beauty roadmap.”