LVMH Inaugurates Perfumes & Cosmetics Research Center

FRANCE: Luxury goods firm LVMH has inaugurated its perfumes and cosmetics research center in Saint-Jean-de-Braye, France. Named Hélios—in reference to the sun—the center is a reflection of the group’s commitment to the luxury perfumes and cosmetics industry in France, the company said.

The completely dedicated research and innovation facility, which spans 18,000-square meters, houses 250 researchers from LVMH brands Maisons of Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Givenchy Perfumes and Fresh.

More than 20 fields of research will be represented at the center, including molecular and cell biology, physical chemistry, ethnobotany, sensory analysis, formulation, toxicology and histology, among many others.

“The inauguration of our new Hélios research center is a very positive development for our perfumes and cosmetics businesses. It is an unparalleled facility for developing products that will meet the highest standards of quality,” said Bernard Arnault, chairman and CEO of the LVMH Group. “This state-of-the-art facility is representative of the strategy of the Group and our ambition to consistently reinforce and expand the savoir-faire behind our businesses in France.”

LVMH started constructing the center in the late 2000s at the Parfums Christian Dior site in Saint-Jean-de-Braye. Spanning 55 hectares near the forest de Charbonnière, it is one of the largest production sites of luxury perfumes and cosmetics in France.
Hélios is composed of a group of six buildings, each of which spans three levels, and is built in the form of a triangle around a large central atrium. Designed by architectural firm Arte Charpentier, the space aims to foster creativity.

As a member of the Cosmetic Valley, LVMH Research is already engaged with many public actors—both national and international—and private companies, including start-ups and SMEs. To extend this, Hélios has signed a partnership with the University of Orléans.

Dubbed Skinovalys, the project builds on the existing long-standing ties between fundamental research units of the University of Orléans and LVMH Research. Skinovalys is targeted at external researchers as well as start-ups, micro-businesses and SMEs. It will enable them to get access to advanced scientific equipment and the expertise of Hélios; to validate concepts in the field of cosmetics, and it will provide support for participating organizations in the experimental phase of their projects.

Founded in 1981, LVMH Research is the perfume and cosmetics research and development division for the LVMH Group. This EIG (Economic Interest Group) encompasses the Houses of Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Parfums Givenchy and Fresh.

LVMH Research also develops skin care products, makeup and perfume for Kenzo and Make Up For Ever in France and Acqua Di Parma in Italy as well as a number of the Group’s American brands, such as Benefit Cosmetics.