Emergence client, Nautilus Biosciences Canada Inc (Nautilus), a technology-rich marine biotechnology company based in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, has been acquired by Croda International Plc, a listed UK company that creates, makes and sells speciality chemicals.
Nautilus was founded in 2007 by Professor Russell Kerr to focus on using marine microbial biodiversity to discover novel actives and materials.
Through this acquisition and the associated patents, Croda will utilise this innovative science for applications across all its market sectors.
Croda and Nautilus already have a proven history of successful collaboration, having worked closely together for the past six years developing specific applications for skin care and hair care, as well as crop care.
Croda intends to establish Nautilus as a Croda Centre of Innovation for Marine Biotechnology at Nautilus’ existing base at the University of Prince Edward Island.
Croda told us: “This location is ideal for biotechnology research and has already attracted and facilitated partnerships with many other biotechnology-based companies. Nautilus has exclusive global access to the Marine Microbial Library which is based at the University of Prince Edward Island.”
Steve Foots, Chief Executive of Croda, said: “This is another clear example of how sustainable innovation is underpinning our growth plans. With Nautilus as part of the Croda Group, we further expand our expertise in biotechnology; the Nautilus team that will join us have extensive knowledge and expertise in marine biotechnology, also known as “blue biotechnology”. We will be able to bring new, patented products to market, alongside our already well-known green and white biotechnology ingredients, giving us the full spectrum of capabilities within this field of science.”
Professor Russ Kerr
Professor Russell Kerr, Founder of Nautilus, says: “We have enjoyed a very positive and collaborative relationship with both Croda and the University of Prince Edward Island for a number of years and have always been impressed with Croda’s drive to develop the opportunities from marine biotechnology.
“Becoming part of the Croda group will provide Nautilus the resources and support to establish a key centre for the research and development of marine-derived natural products, as well as providing Croda new products for commercial success.”
About Croda
Established in 1925, Croda is the name behind high performance ingredients and technologies in some of the world’s biggest and most successful brands: creating, making and selling speciality chemicals that are relied on by industries and consumers everywhere. They have a network of over 4,200 passionate and committed employees, working together as one global team across manufacturing sites and offices in 36 countries. Croda is a FTSE100 company with a flexible structure that allows them to focus on developing and delivering innovative, sustainable ingredients that their customers can build on in: Personal Care, Health Care, Crop Care, Polymer Additives, Lubricants, Coatings & Polymers, Geo Tech, Home Care and Industrial Specialities. http://www.croda.com/