Wacker chooses DKSH to distribute biotech products in Asia

Munich-based Wacker has chosen DKSH to distribute its biotech products used for personal care applications in Asia taking advantage of the Zurich-headquartered firm’s presence in the region.

As of October 2012, DKSH will be responsible for the distribution of cyclodextrins, cystine and cysteine in Southeast Asia, India and South Korea.

DKSH will also be entrusted with the marketing and distribution of Wacker biotech products in the same regions at the same time.

Strengthen position

"The partnership with DKSH will significantly strengthen Wacker's position in Southeast Asia, a region in which we see growing demand, particularly for our biotech products and solutions," says Heiko Zipp, director of the Nutrition business team at Wacker Biosolutions, the company's biotech and life-sciences division.

The product portfolio comprises biotech cyclodextrins, as well as vegetarian-grade - i.e. fermentation-generated - cystine and cysteine; products used in food and beverages, as well as in personal care products.

Cyclodextrins can be used to increase the bioavailability of certain active agents, whilst cyclodextrins are also utilized in personal care and household products. Cysteine is an amino acid that is used as a raw material in aroma production.

Regional leverage

“Thanks to our unparalleled distribution footprint in Asia, we can leverage on our size, experience, and industry know-how to provide tailored services and exceptional distribution opportunities for Wacker Biosolutions,” comments Cori Diaz, vice president Key Client Management, DKSH Performance Materials.

“In line with our focus on strategic business and relationship development with current and potential key clients, this cooperation with Wacker represents another milestone since establishing the new key client function in 2011.”

The DKSH Group is a leading provider of services to enterprises expanding into Asia. It has 650 offices in 35 countries worldwide and focuses on industry-specific fields of competence such as consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, specialized raw materials and technology.