17 December 2025

Interview on surfactants and sustainability

As part of a practical seminar at the University of Sustainability, master's students Eric Reinesch and Celina Timmé analyzed the Austrian surfactant market. They were supported by Günter Handler, Managing Director of Nordmann Austria and Zivka Widter, Senior Technical Sales & Product Manager Life Sciences at Nordmann Austria, and Prof. Dr. Ann-Christine Schulz, Professor of Sustainable Strategy and Governance at Charlotte Fresenius Private University Vienna. Nordmann News spoke with those involved about the results, which provide interesting insights into market trends, regulatory developments and strategic opportunities for Nordmann.

Eric Reinesch and Celina Timmé, what trends do you currently see in the Austrian surfactant market?

Answer: Three developments are particularly shaping the market: First, demand for biodegradable surfactants such as APGs is increasing. Second, regulatory requirements are becoming more stringent — keywords here are green claims and digital product passports. And third, we see innovation potential, for example in sugar surfactants or biotechnologically produced surfactants. Those who offer solutions here create trust and differentiation.

Picture of Zivka Widter, Nordmann, Eric Reinesch, Celina Timmé und Prof. Dr. Ann-Christine Schulz von der University of Sustainability in Wien.

From left to right: Zivka Widter, Nordmann, Eric Reinesch, Celina Timmé and Prof. Dr. Ann-Christine Schulz from the University of Sustainability in Vienna.

Prof. Schulz, what is particularly important for Nordmann in this market?

Answer: The analysis clearly shows that Nordmann would be well advised to continue focusing on its existing strengths and to expand them in a targeted manner. Clear segmentation and targeting sustainability-oriented medium-sized companies that are increasingly looking for biodegradable, plant-based or biotechnological surfactants are particularly important. This is because the trend toward sustainable cleaning and care products is growing. Equally important is the continuous development of consulting expertise—especially in the area of bio-surfactants and regulatory requirements. Another success factor is credible sustainability communication: storytelling about CO₂ savings or biodegradability can serve as a strong differentiator and build trust.

Ms. Widter & Mr. Handler, how does Nordmann specifically support its customers when it comes to surfactants? And do you have any personal conclusions about this project?

Answer: We provide our customers with comprehensive advice—from the selection of tested raw materials to formulation issues and regulatory questions. They benefit from our in-depth expertise, for example, in the area of digital product passports. Our established partnerships with leading surfactant manufacturers such as KOLB and EOC also ensure access to a broad and high-quality product portfolio—especially in the area of sustainable surfactants. If required, we are happy to provide samples at any time and discuss individual solutions.

The seminar at the University of Sustainability was not just a theoretical exercise, but a practice-oriented workshop in which students worked with Nordmann to develop concrete market strategies. This collaboration illustrates how important knowledge transfer between universities and industry is for the development of sustainable solutions. Our customers will benefit from the expertise gained.

Thank you very much for the interview.