While in France for the ING Operations Seminar, I had the opportunity to extend my travel to visit dsm-firmenich in Grasse. This was an especially unique opportunity as they are one of the only other Naturals plant within dsm-firmenich but with a focus on fine fragrances. The aim was to learn what processes they have in place and how they could potentially apply at our site as well in all areas (production, quality, planning/SAP, etc.). As an added bonus, I got to enjoy this visit with the representatives of the 3 other joint ventures in naturals. 3 days was hardly enough time to take in all the information, but the effort was made with back-to-back tours and meetings.

During the production tour I got to see several workshops in operation: CO2 extraction, solvent extractions, molecular distillation, microwave technology and blending. For several of these processes, they were starting w/ the natural biomass which differs greatly from Essex where the farmers distill the biomass and we further process the oil through blending and fractional distillation. Though some of these processes could be applied to mint, it does not pose an advantage due to mint being a commodity as opposed to a fine fragrance.

Production processes were supported by the laboratories through small scale test runs and development of new processes/extractions and scents. The range of possibilities were endless and the passion was contagious.

The last leg of my visit was dedicated to RM planning. This topic is where Essex and Grasse had the most in common as we are at the mercy of natural variation. These meetings will help to guide/redirect our future crop meetings to ensure Essex maintains proper inventory levels without sacrificing quality or ability to supply. The key is to involve all the stakeholders and move forward together.

 

Key note: Visit in April/May to witness the peak season of rose fields

~E. Carrington