Oleon - Novance

Oleon and Novance: two companies specialized in oleochemistry.

European leader in oleochemistry

Oleon and Novance lead the European oleochemistry market with a joint capacity of over 500 000 metric tons of renewable products (fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, glycerol, etc...).

The 2 companies develop a wide range of renewable, biodegradable and non-toxic products and formulae using vegetable oils and animal fats. Companies from a number of sectors (food, chemistry, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, paints and coatings, detergents and hygiene products, printing, etc.) use them as intermediates or ready-to-use products.

Oleon and Novance specialize on complementary activities.

Novance handles research, innovation, and development for high value-added products. Oleon produces and commercializes the group’s broad range of renewable products through its global commercial and industrial network.

Business and key figures for the Oleochemistry BU

Oleochemical production capacity: > 500 000 metric tons
Products : fatty acids, esters, glycerin, technical oils, specialty dérivés, formulations
Industrial plants: 6

Shareholding*: 100% SOPROL
*au 31/12/2010

Renewable chemistry: an innovative and strategic activity

 <h2>The origins of Oleon and Novance date back to the 19th century in Belgium and France, before the emergence of petrochemistry. Today, these activities are gaining further importance as petroleum based raw materials are getting more scarce and environmental requirements more stringent.</h2> 

Renewable chemistry is a strategic axis for Sofiprotéol’s development, complementing its activities in the food and energy sectors. Following Novance’s inception in 1996, the acquisition of Oleon in 2009 helped reinforce Sofiprotéol’s expertise in oleochemistry. These subsidiaries provide the Group with a strong ability to innovate and develop in the field of renewable chemistry.They also complement its solid European base of oilseed crushing, vegetable oil refining, biodiesel and glycerine production facilities. Sofiproteol has thus strengthen its international presence and ability to succeed in an increasingly competitive environment.

More about renewable chemistry 

Oleon and Novance industrial sites

Oleon and Novance operate on 6 production sites: Compiègne (France), Emmerich (Germany), Ertvelde (Belgium), Oelegem (Belgium), Sandefjord (Norway), and Port Klang (Malaysia).

They also own a netxork of 8 sales offices spread over 3 continents.