20 Years of Natural Success: How Cosphatec is Shaping the Cosmetics Industry Sustainably
Interview with Frank Brauns,
CEO of Cosphatec
Mr Brauns, 20 years of Cosphatec success story. Could you give us an insight into how the Cosphatec journey began back then?
To be honest: very down-to-earth. I founded the company on my own and really did everything myself at the beginning – from labelling to delivering 500-kilo shipments. Our first ‘warehouse’ was my parents' shed. It was a time characterised by real start-up energy – full of passion, creativity and hands-on spirit. The turning point came with the development of our innovative product portfolio. We realised early on that the market needed natural alternatives that were scientifically sound, effective and reliable from a regulatory perspective. With this vision, strong networks and a great deal of expertise, we were able to grow internationally step by step. Today, we are proud to reach customers in over 50 countries – with subsidiaries in Shanghai and Paris and a strong network of international sales partners. At the same time, we remain true to our Hanseatic values.
The path to the top is rarely straightforward. What were the biggest hurdles for you personally and professionally on the way to making Cosphatec one of the leading suppliers of natural preservation alternatives?
Building trust – that was probably the biggest challenge, both for customers and suppliers. Because 20 years ago, nature-based preservation was still a niche topic. And even today, quality alone is not enough in this segment. You have to offer expertise, regulatory safety and, above all, reliability. It took time, expertise and genuine partnerships to establish ourselves as a permanent fixture on the market. Our networks have helped us a lot here – they have often opened the door to new opportunities and sustainable relationships. At the same time, global crises, political tensions and volatile supply chains are a constant challenge. Thanks to our long-standing partners, a diversified supplier network and strategically positioned subsidiaries, we can react flexibly and guarantee security of supply.
We are particularly proud of our successful market entry in Asia, which we realised in 2016 with the establishment of Cosphatec Shanghai – an important milestone on our path to an international presence. Next year, we will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of this subsidiary – a sign of the sustained strength of our global activities. In 2023, we were able to tap into another key growth market in an even more targeted manner with the opening of our location in Paris and further expand our proximity to European customers.
These steps show: Our development has never just been an economic path, but always a strategic one characterised by partnership – with the aim of creating sustainable added value for our customers worldwide.
What exactly do you offer your customers today – and what distinguishes Cosphatec from other providers?
We offer far more than ‘just’ raw materials – we deliver solutions. Our portfolio includes over 60 natural ingredients that have been developed on a scientific basis – with a focus on skin-tolerance, efficacy and naturalness. At the centre are our Cosphaderm® Natural Multifunctionals: natural raw materials with an antimicrobial effect that are not listed as classic preservatives but still offer reliable microbiological stability. This makes them the perfect solution for formulation and regulatory challenges.
But the decisive difference lies in the service: our experienced R&D team supports our customers from the initial idea to the final formulation. We provide comprehensive advice on raw material selection, certifications, regulatory issues and even offer challenge tests – always solution-orientated, individual and at eye level. Our customers really appreciate this personalised approach and partnership-based exchange – many relationships have existed for over a decade.
The cosmetics industry is changing very fast – new trends, increasing demands for naturalness and effectiveness, global dynamics. How do you intend to develop Cosphatec in the future to meet these challenges and needs?
The cosmetics industry today faces several complex challenges: Consumers not only expect highly effective and safe products, but also attach great importance to sustainability, transparency and ethical standards. At the same time, regulatory requirements and changing market conditions are constantly driving the industry forward.
Our vision for the coming years is clear: we want to continue to be a leader in innovation – with a portfolio that is not only natural and safe, but also highly functional and in line with market requirements. In doing so, we keep a very close eye on what moves our customers around the world: from regulatory requirements and regional consumer wishes to technological developments.
A key objective is therefore to continuously develop our range – with smart, nature-based solutions that are precisely tailored to the needs of modern formulators. At the same time, we are making targeted investments in the expansion of our international presence to be even closer to the markets and to be able to communicate faster and in a more targeted manner. Because we know that: Innovation alone is not enough – it must be understandable, applicable and relevant to the customer.
Facing increasing competition in the field of natural raw materials: How does Cosphatec manage to successfully establish itself in the market and consolidate its position as a leading supplier?
In my opinion, it is the clear combination of innovation, trust and excellent service quality. Product quality and scientific basis are of course essential – but the real difference comes from the way we work with our customers. We do not see ourselves as an anonymous supplier, but as a strategic partner who recognises individual challenges and provides solution-oriented support. In addition, our strong, global networks enable us to provide outstanding security of supply and a high degree of flexibility – especially in times of global uncertainty and market volatility. Equally important is our active exchange of knowledge and our ambition to always think one step ahead. For us, growth is not just about expanding in numbers, but above all about intensifying relationships with our customers, a deep understanding of their needs and challenges and the consistent quality of our solutions.
Looking back on 20 years of natural growth – what do you wish for the future of Cosphatec and the industry as a whole?
I would like to see us continue to make our contribution to a more responsible cosmetics industry over the next 20 years – with innovations that are not only effective but also value-based. Cosphatec should continue to be a partner you can rely on: professionally, personally and strategically.
At the same time, I would like to see the focus on naturalness and sustainability become standard throughout the industry rather than a trend. If we manage to develop solutions together with our customers and partners that harmonise nature, science and market requirements, then I can look forward to the future with great confidence.
