LVMH has debuted its new state-of-the-art research facility – Hélios – in France, near Orleans. It is situated in Saint-Jean-de-Braye, and covers 18,000 sq. miles. it is one of the largest production sites of luxury perfumes and cosmetics in France.

The facility is completely dedicated to research and innovation, where 250 researchers from the Maisons of Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Givenchy Perfumes and Fresh will be based. They will be developing new processes and securing new patents in the fields of cosmetics and the beauty sciences.

Their work will be focused on three strategic areas: research, development and expertise. More than 20 fields of research will be represented at the centre, including: molecular and cell biology, physical chemistry, ethnobotany, sensory analysis, formulation, toxicology and histology, among many others.

Bernard Arnault, Chairman and CEO of the LVMH Group, commented:

“The inauguration of our new Hélios research centre is a very positive development for our Perfumes and Cosmetics businesses. It is an unparalleled facility for developing products that will meet the highest standards of quality. This state of the art facility is representative of the strategy of the Group and our ambition to consistently reinforce and expand the savoir-faire behind our businesses in France.”

The facility will help create approximately 1,200 new beauty products a year, accounting for 20-25 percent of annual sales at LVMH’s perfume and cosmetics unit.

What does it look like?

The facility’s unique design aims to foster creativity. It is a group of six buildings, each of which spans three levels, built in a triangle around a large central atrium.

The design concept was conceived by the architectural firm Arte Charpentier. It was built according to the LVMH Group’s high standards of quality as well as the High Environmental Quality (HEQ) standards and uses environmentally sound materials.