13 March, 2026 15:08:46 IST 
Robertet, a France based provider of natural raw materials for fragrances, flavours, and active ingredients, has announced the expansion of its partnership with Aethera Biotech through a strategic investment.
Founded in 2016, Aethera Biotech specialises in the research, development and production of active ingredients from cell multiplication process. These natural ingredients are designed primarily for the cosmetics and health market. Aethera Biotech is a subsidiary of the Italian family-owned group Cereal Docks, specialising in primary agro-food transformation.
Robertet said the joint venture between the two family-owned groups will combine Aethera Biotech’s platform, proprietary intellectual property, production capabilities and existing product line with Robertet’s global reach and commercial expertise. The investment, which will be completed in two phases over a three-year period under certain conditions, will be Robertet’s first step in plant-based biotechnology space.
Aethera Biotech is a pioneer in phyto-complex biotechnologies through its proprietary, multi-patented CROP (Controlled Release of Optimised Plants) platform. Inspired by natural plant mechanisms, this technology enables the secure production of natural extracts in controlled conditions, independent of climatic, agricultural or geopolitical constraints.
This collaboration will enable Robertet to:
· Strengthen its biotechnology expertise by integrating a proven scientific team and an efficient industrial platform, establishing Aethera Biotech as a centre of excellence for future biotech developments across the Group.
· Enter the market for topical cosmetic active ingredients.
· Secure sustainable and resilient access to innovative natural ingredients regardless of climatic, agricultural or geopolitical uncertainties.
· Support long-term growth by commercialising Aethera Biotech’s portfolio through Robertet’s global distribution network, particularly within the fragrance division.
Mr. Jérôme Bruhat, CEO of Robertet, stated, “This joint venture reflects our conviction that biotech will play an increasingly important role in the development of high-value, sustainable solutions.”
Mr. Olivier Maubert, Group Innovation Director and Head of the Health & Beauty division at Robertet, added, “After nearly two years of close collaboration, this next step further advances our vision of ‘Augmented Naturality’. Aethera Biotech’s CROP technology offers a unique and complementary approach to developing natural extracts and active cosmetic ingredients, enabling us to address growing market demand while accelerating innovation in skin science, a key pillar of our Health & Beauty roadmap.”
Mr. Francesco Berti, Managing Director of Cereal Docks Group, said that the partnership will enable Aethera Biotech to fully leverage the potential of the CROP technology and accelerate the development of next generation, high-quality plant-based phyto-complexes, and benefit from Robertet’s global customer network.
