DKSH invests considerable resources into research and development (R&D) programs that support the expansion of our partners and develop products that enrich people’s lives.
Here are five R&D case studies showcasing why DKSH is a trusted market expansion provider for companies seeking to grow their businesses in Asia and beyond.
1. Market Insights and Product Customization
A successful R&D strategy begins with detailed market research. Our partners enjoy access to our network of 53 innovation centers located worldwide. At each center, omni-channel data analytics and technical brainstorming services enable them to plan and tailor their product innovation approach for each market in which they plan to grow.
Having generated and conceptualized fresh ideas, the next phase is to develop and customize applicable products and solutions. Our teams specialize in cutting-edge ingredients, formulations, and technology applications. Specification testing ensures each new product complies with local and global standards and technical training optimizes market coverage. These customized solutions help our clients reduce time to market and increase their competitive advantage.
2. Formulating Water-free Personal Care
With climate change making water an even more precious commodity, beauty consumers are demanding products that are manufactured in less resource-intensive ways. Waterless cosmetics are viewed as both planet-friendly and desirable by beauty fans concerned about preserving the natural environment.
We work with our partners to formulate personal care items that reduce or remove water from the production process through cold-process and low-energy emulsification. These water-free formulations act as waxes in solid products. They ensure thermostability and viscosity for oil-based formulations and provide elasticity to solid cosmetic products. DKSH’s water-optimized personal care solutions align with our sustainability goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2023 and ongoing efforts to improve our responsible business practices.
3. Pollution Treatment Solutions in Vietnam
A leading environmental research institute in Vietnam wanted to improve its R&D efficiency. The institute develops pollution treatment technologies for exhaust gas, wastewater, and hazardous waste, but outsourcing its testing processes resulted in delays and extra costs.
We tailored a range of solutions to overcome these challenges. Advanced analytical instruments and a 3D printing machine enable the institute to perform onsite testing and prototyping. We trained staff to leverage the high-precision equipment, enhancing their research capabilities and operational efficiency. Increasing the speed of development for safe and sustainable materials eliminated existing investment challenges and positioned the institute for future success in environmental protection and sustainable materials innovation.
4. Sourcing Fine Chocolates in Japan
Max Felchin AG is a Swiss niche producer of couverture chocolate that planned to open a new store in Japan. The firm sought expert support to source the finest ingredients for its new range of chocolates. It also wanted to ensure the recipes for its chocolate products catered to Japanese consumer preferences.
We worked together to select the right cacao beans by vetting flavors and aromas from different markets. We also experimented with different mixing ratios of raw materials to achieve the perfect flavor combination. The pâtissier at DKSH's Condirama confectionery technology research, training, and development center then created a new recipe for the store. Once the new chocolate store was ready to open, we supplied market insights and sales operational support to ensure it created engaging interactions with its customers.
5. Supporting Scientific Research in Cambodia
The work of scientific researchers and students at the Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP) is constrained by a lack of cutting-edge laboratory instruments. This limits their ability to drive innovation in important areas for the national economy, such as optoelectronics, semiconductors, and industrial products.
We provided and installed a range of advanced tools to support RUPP teams in their complex explorative studies. Our application experts conducted hands-on training sessions enabling researchers to utilize the advanced functionalities to their full potential. Through this partnership, we empowered academic researchers to conduct accurate and impactful studies that will provide new impetus to Cambodia’s industrial development.
