Press Release
Firmenich Celebrates Submission of Absolue Pays de Grasse Geographic Certification
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND, JUNE 18, 2020 -
Firmenich, the world’s largest privately-owned perfume and taste company, is proud to participate in the opening of a request for an Absolue Pays de Grasse geographic indication. If approved, the certification from the French government’s Ministère de l’Economie, de l’Industrie et du Numérique will promote local expertise and protect the market by providing customers a guarantee for the quality and authenticity of the products produced in the region, the cradle of modern perfumery.
Julien Firmenich, Vice President Sales, Ingredients, Perfumery said: “As one of the leading fragrance houses in naturals and sustainability, we are very proud to participate in this initiative to recognize the savoir-faire of the region of Grasse. This certification will provide a clear benefit for our customers and their consumers, a guarantee that their products are of the highest quality, produced locally, according to the celebrated traditions of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Grasse.”
Grasse
The official request was made by the association Les Fleurs d’Exception du Pays de Grasse, which includes Firmenich and six other local industry leaders. The association represents and defends the interests of producers of fragrance and flavor ingredients in the region of Grasse. They established a local, collective working group to draft the certification specifications, which describe, among other things, the product characteristics which must be respected. By obtaining this label, the association and its members complete a mission to preserve and enhance the region, its local traditions and its knowledge. In addition, the label would also contribute to the maintenance and development of local businesses and jobs.
After the current exploratory period, approval of the certification is expected before the end of the year.
Firmenich’s Center of Excellence in Grasse treats over 80 raw materials from around the world each year to produce more than 800 natural ingredients for its palette. Firmenich is one of the most important producers of exclusive Rose de Mai absolute, harvested locally and extracted in their facilities in Tourettes. The innovation platform in Grasse hosts Master Perfumers on a regular basis to stimulate and elevate the creation of new ingredients. In Spring 2021, Firmenich will open its newest Fine Fragrance Atelier, Villa Botanica, a prestigious, remarkable, 40,000-square-meter site, complete with gardens, creation workshop, reception area and stunning views of the mountains and sea, to showcase natural ingredients and innovations.
