Ecopol, a company specializing in innovative biodegradable films and delivery systems, has invested in JRF Technology, a US-based organization focused on water-soluble polymer and edible film technology.
This move aligns with Ecopol’s strategy to accelerate the development of sustainable delivery systems, with the aim of commercializing biodegradable and bio-based delivery systems for various attractive end-markets, including personal care and healthcare. JRF will continue to be led by James Rossman and Richard Fielder, and will serve as Ecopol’s US R&D Center of Excellence, complementing its R&D capabilities in Italy.
“Our strategic investment in JRF aligns well with Ecopol’s strategy to accelerate the development of the next generation of sustainable delivery systems,” said Ecopol CEO Mauro Carbone. “We see tremendous opportunity to leverage our complementary R&D capabilities and JRF’s exciting pipeline to commercialize innovative biodegradable and bio-based delivery systems for applications across attractive end-markets, including personal care and healthcare. We believe these solutions will experience significant tailwinds for adoption as brand owners and consumers seek more sustainable and innovative products. We are excited to collaborate with Jim and Richard, who bring decades of experience as inventors and innovators in the field.”
This investment is part of a series of global investments by Ecopol aimed at expanding its capacity and capabilities. In 2023, Ecopol invested in a new pouch-filling pilot line at its Italian R&D Center of Excellence and added a new production facility in Griffin, GA to serve the North American market.
The investment in JRF represents the first step in partnership with SK Capital Partners, LP, which acquired a majority stake in Ecopol in September 2023. SK Capital’s Principal, Josh Lieberman, expressed excitement about supporting Ecopol’s expansion globally and accelerating the introduction of innovative products to new end-markets.