Die strategische Rolle externer chemischer F&E-Dienstleistungen für Kostenoptimierung und Nachhaltigkeit

In today’s competitive and environmentally conscious market, manufacturing companies face increasing pressure to optimize costs while meeting ambitious sustainability goals. Achieving these objectives often requires advanced technical expertise, specialized infrastructure, and innovative thinking—resources that may not always be readily available in-house. This is where external chemical R&D services play a transformative role, offering tailored solutions that drive both cost efficiency and environmental responsibility.

According to a 2023 report by McKinsey, over 70% of industrial manufacturers cite cost reduction and over 60% cite sustainability compliance as top strategic priorities for the next five years.

How Chemical R&D Services Support Cost Optimization

External R&D providers offer a fast-track route to innovation by helping companies reduce material usage, lower energy consumption, and streamline processes. They develop advanced formulations and alternative ingredients that minimize waste and boost efficiency. In addition, their expertise in process chemistry enables the adoption of energy-saving production methods, reducing operational expenses.

R&D experts also support manufacturers in staying compliant with evolving regulations, helping avoid costly penalties and reformulations. Furthermore, they can improve product performance and longevity through chemical enhancements, ultimately cutting replacement and lifecycle costs. By avoiding prolonged in-house trial and error, companies can reduce risks, accelerate time-to-market, and focus their internal teams on core operations.

Enabling Sustainability Goals

Manufacturers seeking to transition from fossil-based to plant-derived alternatives can benefit significantly from external R&D. These partners bring deep knowledge in sustainable chemistry and are instrumental in developing bio-based raw materials. In that regard, the global bio-based chemicals market has been growing from €80 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach €125 billion by 2030, with Europe representing a leading segment (European Bioplastics, 2023).

External R&D services also contribute to carbon footprint reduction. According to Plastics Europe, bio-based additives and materials can achieve 40–60% lower CO₂ emissions compared to traditional petrochemical-based alternatives. Sustainable process innovations, including solvent-free synthesis and closed-loop systems, support more environmentally responsible manufacturing.

In line with circular economy principles, chemical R&D experts focus on creating materials that are recyclable or biodegradable. They also help conserve resources by developing water-efficient formulations and dry-processing techniques.

A Competitive Edge

Partnering with external chemical R&D services allows manufacturers to access high-level expertise and technology without the burden of maintaining in-house research infrastructure. This collaboration boosts agility, reduces development time, and ensures alignment with environmental and regulatory standards.

Hiring an external R&D is not merely a cost-saving measure or a compliance strategy—it is a multi-level opportunity that provides manufacturers with the tools to thrive in a greener, more progressive-driven economy.

At wertec, we’re dedicated to being your trusted partner on the path to sustainable innovation. Whether you’re striving to enhance product performance, reduce environmental impact, or streamline costs, our external chemical R&D services are here to support your journey—every step of the way.

References

McKinsey & Company. (2023). The State of Industrial Manufacturing.

European Bioplastics. (2023). Market Data Update.

Plastics Europe. (2023). Sustainability and Circularity in Plastics.