Afyren teams up with Minasolve to produce bio-based molecules for perfumery
On November 5, 2026, Afyren (ALAFY) announced that it has partnered with Minasolve, the green chemistry division of the Minafin group, to develop and then market bio-based molecules intended for the perfume industry.
The agreement opens the derivatives market to the carboxylic acid producer, which the group presents as a growth opportunity “requiring little capital.”
Bio-based alternatives to petroleum-derived perfume molecules
The partnership agreement brings together Afyren, which produces bio-based carboxylic acids through biomass fermentation, and Minasolve, based in Memphis (Tennessee) and specialized in bio-based solvents, intermediates and ingredients. Its objective: to jointly develop, on an industrial scale, and then market a selection of molecules used in perfumery.
According to the press release, these molecules are today frequently derived from petroleum, while the leading players in cosmetics and beauty are seeking bio-based alternatives. The two partners highlight a natural and traceable origin, a carbon footprint lower than that of petrochemical equivalents, and stable and predictable costs.
A complex molecule to industrialize, production targeted within two years
The partnership is designed in stages. After several months of laboratory work, Afyren has validated a production route for a key intermediate derived from a carboxylic acid already in its portfolio, paving the way for the manufacture of the final ingredient.
In the coming months, the two companies will continue developing a complex molecule before focusing on industrializing the selected manufacturing process. The stated goal is to launch production and commercialization of this molecule within two years.
For Minasolve, the initiative addresses one of the priorities of the Green Chemistry and Specialty Products division of Minafin: offering sustainable substitution solutions. Frédéric Marmousez, CEO of the Minafin group, stated: “By joining forces, we will strengthen our value proposition and our market position in certain applications.”
Adding value to existing acids through derivatives, with lower capex
Developing derivatives from its existing acids is a strategic priority for Afyren: it is expected to ensure recurring demand for the products in its portfolio, at a controlled investment cost.
Given its stage of development, the company is considering a subcontracting model with industrial partners, which would reduce its capex requirements and shorten time-to-market.
Jérémy Pessiot, Innovation Director and co-founder of Afyren, summed up this approach: “As our biorefinery ramps up, we are already strengthening our presence in related, low-capital activities that broaden our range of solutions for end markets.”
Afyren indicates that it is currently developing a portfolio of about a dozen innovation projects at various stages of maturity. The company, whose first biorefinery, Afyren Neoxy, is located in the Grand Est region, devotes 20% of its annual budget to R&D and employed 140 people at the end of 2025.
