Most of our research takes place at our skin research center in Hamburg which, with around 450 scientists, is one of the largest and most advanced in Germany, and one of the most important in the world. The annual research & development budget is around 150 million Euros. This is where new products are developed and substances and formulas are tested to ensure that they do not pose a threat to health and are compatible with the skin. This is done without animal testing: For more than 20 years Beiersdorf has been one of the world's leading and most respected research-driven enterprises in respect to its ability to develop in vitro alternatives such as cell culture tests.
An important part of the skin research center at Hamburg is a test center where more than 1,500 studies on new skin care formulas and active ingredients are conducted involving 21,000 contacts with volunteers every year. The center is equipped with 35 examination rooms and with technology that is capable of exactly measuring different changes in the skin and so demonstrate and document the effectiveness of anti-aging products, for example. The direct contact with the test persons also gives us important information which is suitable for product optimization and allowing us to gain insights into the needs and wishes of consumers.
An important success factor for Beiersdorf's products around the world is our in-depth focus on the specific features of regional markets. Since 2005, Beiersdorf has a special Asia Laboratory in which skin care products are developed to meet the needs of Asian consumers and the climatic requirements in this region. This lab was joined in 2007 by a LATAM Laboratory that develops products for Brazil and other Latin American countries. Research and development for our Chinese hair care and styling brands take place locally.
