Process & chemical industry

The process and chemical industries are the backbone of many modern industries. Here, raw materials, chemicals, and materials are processed or refined using large-scale processes. This sector is highly specialized, technology-driven, and characterized by strict safety and environmental regulations.

Whether paints, plastics, fertilizers, coatings, or biochemical active ingredients – the products of the process industries undergo complex production processes and are used in almost all consumer and industrial goods. Their innovative strength is crucial for advances in areas such as medical technology, energy, packaging, environmental technology, and electronics.

Typical sub-sectors:

Chemicals & Petrochemicals: Processing of fossil raw materials into basic chemicals, fuels, and plastics
Plastics & Rubber Manufacturing: Production of synthetic materials for packaging, construction, automotive, etc.
Paints, varnishes & coatings: Specialty chemicals for industry, construction, and consumer goods
Biochemicals & Agrochemicals: Production of bioactive ingredients, fertilizers, crop protection, etc.
Glass, paper & packaging materials: High-volume process goods for industrial and private use
Key challenges:

Energy costs & decarbonization of energy-intensive processes
Raw material availability & geopolitical supply chain risks
Pressure for innovation due to the bioeconomy and circular economy
Scalable digitalization from laboratory to production
Potential for digital procurement:

Identification of specialized suppliers worldwide
Flexible selection of suppliers in the face of fluctuating raw material prices
Integration of ESG criteria (e.g., REACH, ISO 14001) into the Sourcing Process
Efficient tendering and technical documentation (e.g., safety data sheets, specifications)
Co-development and innovation sourcing with research partners or startups