European Market For Home Care Specialty Ingredients Remains Dynamic

2009-10-22 | 08:06

Fueled by need to reduce germs and address eco concerns.

According to a new report from Frost & Sullivan, the European market for specialty ingredients in home and fabric care formulations remains dynamic, fueled by the need to minimize risks from bacteria and germs, reduce the time and effort required for household chores, and improve the quality of life while addressing the environmental concerns of consumers.

According to Frost & Sullivan’s Strategic Analysis of the Home and Fabric Care Specialty Ingredients Markets in Europe, the market generated sales of approximately $905 million in 2008. The London-based market research firm estimates it will reach more than $1.0 billion by 2015.

"The advent of the 'green' consumer who prefers natural products that are derived from renewable or recycled sources, have an environmentally friendly profile in terms of toxicity and are safe to use is the catalytic driving force," noted Frost & Sullivan industry analyst, Dr. Leonidas Dokos. "The growing demand for more efficient and technically novel chemicals to assist in daily home and fabric care tasks has rejuvenated this mature market as producers focus on addressing the evolving demands of consumers."

Specialty ingredients with an improved environmental profile are pulling the market and influencing demand, according to Frost & Sullivan’s analysis. At the same time, there is a market push in the form of European Directives, with regulators increasingly insisting on reduced toxicity and enhanced biodegradation of such products, the company said.