IFF, the US-based leader in flavors, fragrances and biosciences, has inaugurated an expanded LMR Naturals facility in Grasse, France, following a €10 million investment aimed at accelerating innovation in natural ingredients.
The expansion increases the site’s footprint by 75 percent to 4,687 square metres and includes a new pilot hall to speed up the development of sustainable natural ingredients. A nearby experimental field will provide direct access to plant materials, giving researchers the ability to explore botanical potential and fast-track new product pipelines.
IFF said more than 30 research and development experts will now be brought together under one roof, enhancing the company’s ability to meet global demand for traceable and high-quality naturals.
Strengthening roots in Grasse
“IFF’s LMR Naturals is a strategic asset in our portfolio, and this expansion underscores our commitment to shaping the future of natural ingredients,” said Erik Fyrwald, IFF’s CEO. “By deepening our roots in Grasse — the global centre of excellence for natural ingredients — we’re scaling innovation that empowers perfumers and flavorists worldwide.”
LMR Naturals, founded in 1983 by Monique Remy and acquired by IFF in 2000, is known for providing perfumers and flavorists with sustainably sourced natural ingredients. Its extracts are widely used across fine perfumery, cosmetics, home and fabric care, as well as taste applications.
Sabrya Meflah, president of IFF’s fine fragrance segment, said: “This expansion is more than bricks and mortar—it’s a launchpad for the next generation of naturals that will shape the future of fine perfumery, with applications across all IFF businesses.”
Sustainability at the core
IFF said the upgraded site will help launch four to six new products each year, supported by dual certifications — For Life and Zero Waste to Landfill. The Grasse facility has already achieved a waste valorisation rate of at least 98 percent.
LMR Naturals introduced 23 new ingredients since 2020 and has earned seven CosmetiqueMag awards, as well as recognition from the Organic Monitor Sustainable Beauty Awards. The team processes around 85,000 tonnes of biomass annually, producing 2,000 tonnes of extracts and offering more than 850 ingredients from 130 botanical families.
With the expansion, IFF’s presence in the Grasse region now includes more than 230 employees, strengthening its position as a global hub for sustainable natural ingredient innovation.
