SUPPLIERS ARE OFTEN out of the spotlight during the American Cleaning Institute’s Industry Convention, hunkered down in the depths of the Marriott Grand Lakes hotel, promoting
their new ingredients to many of the leading cleaning product
companies. But suppliers aren’t always stuck behind the scenes.
One of the highlights of the Convention is Henkel’s innovation
awards ceremony. In the laundry category, BASF took top honors
for both its innovation and sustainability efforts. The company
worked with Henkel for five years to develop a phosphate-free
automatic dishwash detergent. The technology can be found in
Henkel’s Somat brand.
Innospec won in the beauty innovation category for its sulfate-free shampoo formula that produces more foam than traditional
formulas. Henkel has utilized the technology in its professional
formulas and will roll it out at retail this year.
In the beauty sustainability category, Summit Reheis was
recognized for its aluminum salts for antiperspirants in powder
form. The technology reduces dust levels for employees, uses
40% less material and reduces white residue for the consumer.
Not every company can win an award, but that doesn’t mean
there weren’t a lot of winning ideas from suppliers during ACI
Week. Evonik made a big splash in the home care space with
the acquisition of Air Products’ Performance Materials Division,
which was completed on Jan. 3, 2017. Company executives were
quick to point out that product lines complement Evonik’s existing business with little overlap. But the Air Products purchase
isn’t just about synergies, say company executives.
“Synergies are not the story; it is about the possibilities that
come with an enhanced portfolio,” said Deborah Anderson, global manager, functional additives.
By Tom Branna • Editorial Director
Supply-Side Innovations
Raw material suppliers roll up their sleeves and roll out their new products for the
global cleaning industry during the American Cleaning Institute’s Convention.