Estée Lauder Companies to open biotech hub in Belgium
Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) has unveiled its new BioTech Hub in Olen, Belgium, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to sustainable innovation. The state-of-the-art facility, strategically located near ELC’s existing manufacturing and distribution campus in Oevel, will play a crucial role in the company’s efforts to develop bio-based raw materials for its prestigious beauty brands, including Estée Lauder and La Mer.
The BioTech Hub will focus on producing biomolecules derived from plants, yeast, and bacteria, leveraging advanced biotechnology to replace traditional ingredients. This approach is designed to support sustainability by preserving biodiversity and natural resources while ensuring the high-quality standards that define ELC’s product offerings.
The new BioTech Hub is set to become a critical component of ELC’s global supply chain, supporting the production of key products while ensuring business continuity. With the ability to scale the production of bio-based materials, the facility will optimize manufacturing processes across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The site is slated to begin commercial production in 2025.
The hub will be led by Caroline Paulussen, a microbiologist and engineer with extensive experience in the field. Her appointment reflects ELC’s dedication to advancing women in STEM within the company and the wider community. Over half of ELC’s scientists, engineers, and technical professionals are women, and all of the company’s R&D and innovation labs worldwide are led by women.
