Novamont

What Novamont does

Novamont S.p.A. is an Italian developer and producer of biodegradable and compostable bioplastics and biochemicals derived from renewable vegetable sources. Founded in 1990 in Novara, Italy, and operating as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Versalis (Eni) since October 2023, the company manufactures the Mater-Bi family of bioplastics spanning four generations with increasing renewable content, alongside specialty biochemicals including bioherbicides (Ager-Bi), biodegradable hydraulic oils (Matrol-Bi), biopolyesters (ORIGO-BI), and a marine-biodegradable fourth-generation Mater-Bi. The technology platform is anchored by integrated biorefineries at Terni, Patrica, and Bottrighe in Italy, with combined production capacity of 250,000 tonnes per year for Mater-Bi and ORIGO-BI products, plus the Matrècca joint venture at Porto Torres for bio-intermediates.

Novamont serves enterprise customers across retail (Unicoop Firenze, Despar, Coop UK, Gruppo Selex), food and beverage (Lavazza, Fileni, Colussi, Melinda, Mutti, La Linea Verde), agriculture (Bayer CropScience, Coldiretti, Consorzio Tutela Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco), cosmetics, footwear (OrthoLite), and public sector (City of Paris, City of Cortina), reaching an estimated 86 million European consumers through Mater-Bi organic waste collection bags. Its go-to-market combines direct sales subsidiaries in France (Paris), Germany (Eschborn), Iberia (Barcelona), and North America (Shelton, CT) with the BioBag International distribution network acquired in 2021, which covers Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Ireland, Finland, Poland, Estonia, Australia, Canada, and the USA, and contributes EUR 41 million in revenue.

The company monetizes primarily through one-time sales of Mater-Bi bioplastic, specialty biochemicals, and BioBag products, supplemented by licensing and technology transfer (including ORIGO-BI biopolyester technology and FDCA production processes). Pricing is enterprise-grade and not publicly disclosed. Proprietary technology is protected by patents covering biobutanediol fermentation (in partnership with Genomatica), FDCA production from cardoon roots, marine biodegradation, and the Matrol-Bi hydraulic oil formulation, with the Mater-Bi trademark registered globally. Regulatory certifications including EN 13432, OK Compost Home, ISO 9001/14001/45001, B Corporation status, and EcoVadis Platinum (top 1% in chemical sector, score 77-83/100) provide additional defensibility across the European single-use plastics and soil-biodegradable inputs regulatory landscape.

Name

Novamont

Legal name

Novamont S.p.A.

Website

https://novamont.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1990

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

501–1,000 employees

Short description

Novamont is an Italian developer and producer of biodegradable and compostable bioplastics and biochemicals derived from renewable vegetable sources, manufacturing the Mater-Bi family and specialty biochemicals for retail, food and beverage, agriculture, and municipal waste-collection customers across Europe, North America, and beyond.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Biodegradable Bioplastics and Biochemicals

NAICS

Plastics Material and Resin Manufacturing (325211), Resin and Synthetic Rubber Manufacturing (32521), Resin, Synthetic Rubber, and Artificial and Synthetic Fibers and Filaments Manufacturing (3252), Pesticide, Fertilizer, and Other Agricultural Chemical Manufacturing (3253)

SIC

Plastic Material, Synth Resin/Rubber, Cellulos (No Glass) (2820), Plastic Materials, Synth Resins & Nonvulcan Elastomers (2821), Miscellaneous Chemical Products (2890)

akta.pro primary industry

Bio-based & Biodegradable Polymer Resin Manufacturing (PLA, PHA, PBS, starch blends) (IMANAAAG)

akta.pro secondary industries

Bio-based Polymers & Bioplastics (e.g., PLA, PHA, bio-PE/PP/PET, PBS) (EUAAAIAC), Compostable & Bio-Based Packaging (PLA/PHA, Starch Blends, Cellulose Films) (IMALAMAB), Compostable Materials & Certified Compostables (IMAEAOAC)

Keywords

• Biodegradable bioplastics
• Compostable materials
• Biorefinery production
• Bio-based chemicals
• Agricultural mulch films

Headquarters

HQ city

Novara

HQ country

Italy

HQ region

Europe

Offices13 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Operations, Technology or R&D, Personnel, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Mater-Bi Bioplastic Sales: Sale of proprietary biodegradable and compostable bioplastics under Mater-Bi brand for packaging, agriculture, cosmetics, and food service applications
2. Specialty Biochemical Sales: Sale of biochemicals including biolubricants (Matrol-Bi), bioherbicides (Ager-Bi), and biochemical intermediates from renewable sources
3. Licensing and Technology Transfer: Licensing of proprietary technologies including ORIGO-BI biopolyester technology and FDCA production processes
4. Subsidiary BioBag Products: Sales of BioBag International compostable and biodegradable certified applications for industry, waste management, retail, HORECA, and agriculture

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

Novamont develops and manufactures biodegradable and compostable bioplastics (primarily the Mater-Bi family) along with specialty biochemicals including biolubricants (Matrol-Bi), bioherbicides (Ager-Bi), biopolyesters (ORIGO-BI), and bio-intermediates, all derived in whole or in part from renewable vegetable sources. The company operates integrated biorefineries in Italy producing resin grades and finished compostable applications for packaging, agricultural films, organic waste collection, cosmetics, and food service industries, complemented by the BioBag International acquired brand for downstream compostable products.

Product overview

Novamont is a leading international player in biodegradable and compostable bioplastics and the development of bioproducts and biochemicals derived entirely or in part from vegetable sources. The company's product portfolio centers on the Mater-Bi family of bioplastics, complemented by specialized product lines including Ager-Bi for agricultural applications (bio-herbicides), Matrol-Bi for biodegradable hydraulic fluids, and Sunpower for energy applications. The company operates through subsidiaries including Mater-Biotech (bio-butanediol production), Mater-Biopolymer (biopolyester production), and the acquired BioBag International group. The business model integrates chemistry, environment, and agriculture through integrated biorefineries to provide application solutions ensuring efficient resource use throughout the product lifecycle with environmental, economic, and social system benefits.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Mater-Bi: Family of biodegradable and compostable bioplastics, in whole or in part from renewable sources, developed through over 30 years of research and innovation
• BioBag
• GreenPolly
• Matrol-Bi
• ORIGO-BI
• Ager-Bi

Products and services

• Mater-Bi Bioplastics Family of biodegradable and compostable bioplastics, in whole or in part from renewable sources, developed through over thirty years of research and innovation. Available in multiple resin grades for packaging, agriculture, food service, organic waste collection bags, cosmetics, and specialty applications. Certified to EN 13432, UNI 10785, and OK Compost Home standards; soil-biodegradable and marine-biodegradable options available.
• Ager-Bi Bioherbicides Herbicide products derived from 100% renewable pelargonic acid for exceptional weed control, vine/olive/hazelnut/fruit tree shoot control, tobacco phytoregulation, and desiccation applications. Targeted at conventional and organic farming.
• Matrol-Bi Biodegradable Hydraulic Oils Biodegradable hydraulic oils and greases based on synthetic esters achieving 92% biodegradability in 21 days, viscosity index of 170, and 4,500-hour service life. Developed in collaboration with Hydronit; positioned as drop-in replacement for mineral oils in environmentally sensitive applications.
• Novamont Biochemicals Bio-based chemicals produced through integrated biorefineries, including monomers, bio-lubricants, bio-fillers, and bio-intermediates for elastomers and bioplastics. Includes products from the Matrèca JV (Versalis) and Mater-Biotech (biobutanediol via fermentation).
• ORIGO-BI Biopolyesters Family of biopolyesters with high content of renewable raw materials, produced at the Mater-Biopolymer facility in Patrica (Frosinone) with capacity of approximately 150,000 tonnes after a 36% expansion. Licensed and sold as a renewable-content resin platform for bioplastic and packaging applications.
• BioBag Compostable and Biodegradable Products Certified compostable and biodegradable finished applications for industry, waste management, retail, HORECA sector, and agriculture. Includes organic waste collection bags, retail shopping bags, food service items, and agricultural films. Sold via BioBag International subsidiaries in Sweden, Denmark, Ireland, Finland, Poland, Australia, Canada, USA, with production in Estonia.
• Pneo Breathable Organic Waste Collection Bags Innovative breathable bag system made from a unique Mater-Bi formulation for optimized separate organic waste collection; reduces odor, weight, and leachate, and achieves 30%+ reduction in waste weight over 7 days. Used by municipalities for organic waste collection (e.g., City of Paris, Unicoop Firenze).
• Mater-Bi Advanced Mulch Film Soil-biodegradable mulch film for agricultural applications (weed control, soil temperature/moisture management). First biodegradable mulch film certified as inorganic amendment according to EU Fertilizers Regulation 2019/1009. Eliminates end-of-life disposal costs and plastic pollution in soil.

Quantifiable outcome

• 25,000 tonnes CO2 saved over 13 years from Mater-Bi bags adopted by Unicoop Firenze
• +4 more outcomes

Named customers19 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature9 records

Partnerships

17 partnerships are on record, tiered core, flagship and minor.

• Bayer CropSciencecoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 11 June 2024One-year trial in Spanish greenhouses confirmed Mater-Bi clips and twines eliminate end-of-life plastic waste in agriculture. Addresses agricultural plastic pollution challenge.
• European Commission (HORIZON)flagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 10 June 2024Novamont coordinates HORIZON-JU-CBE-2023 flagship project on bio-based solutions. Kick-off meeting held in Novara June 2024.
• Versalis (Eni)flagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 18 October 2023Versalis (Eni) completed acquisition of 100% of Novamont shares in October 2023. Eni previously held 36% stake. The acquisition creates Italy's leading green chemistry group with integrated biorefineries. Novamont operates as a subsidiary of Versalis with Catia Bastioli continuing as CEO.
• OrthoLitecoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 13 March 2023Exclusive partnership to create the first circular foam material solution for footwear. Combines Novamont's bioplastic technology with OrthoLite's global footwear platform for sustainable shoes.
• MelindaminorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 4 October 2022Eco-friendly packaging collaboration using apple processing waste for bio-based materials.
• LanxesscoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 31 January 2022Partnership for production of sustainable biocides from renewable raw materials. Lanxess is a specialty chemicals leader; Matrìca JV provides bio-based inputs.
• VersalisflagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 24 March 2021Partnership strengthening synergies in green chemistry. Includes technology collaboration, joint production capacity investments, and shared R&D for bio-based chemicals.
• IrencoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 24 March 2021Framework agreement for circular bioeconomy. Project focuses on technical-economic model for compostable bioplastic packaging management and organic waste pre-treatment residue.
• BioBag InternationalflagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 12 January 2021Novamont acquired BioBag International, a global leader in compostable and biodegradable certified applications. BioBag has 135 employees, 41M EUR revenue, and presence in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Ireland, Finland, Poland, Australia, Canada, USA with production facility in Estonia. Acquisition strengthens Novamont's global distribution and market leadership.
• La Linea VerdeminorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 15 September 2020Launched biodegradable and compostable 'antibiotic free' bag for fresh salads. Reduces plastic waste in fresh produce packaging.
• SAES Coated FilmscoreTechnology or Integration · 3 September 2020Joint project for traceability of compostable products. Benefits composting facilities and guarantees quality and safety of compost through material identification at intake.
• ColdiretticoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 28 March 2019National pact for sunflower oil production for biolubricants, bioplastics, and bioherbicides. Creates Italian agricultural supply chain for renewable raw materials. Includes Sincro JV for bio-products.
• Matrìca (Versalis JV)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 26 May 2011Joint venture with Versalis for green chemistry at Porto Torres, Sardinia. Matrìca produces biochemicals, bio-intermediates, bio-plastics, biolubricants, and bio-additives from renewable vegetable sources. Part of 500M EUR Polo Verde investment.
• GenomaticacoreTechnology or IntegrationTechnology partnership for BDO production via fermentation. First industrial-scale plant at Mater-Biotech using Genomatica technology.
• European Projects ConsortiumcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerParticipation in multiple EU projects: TERRIFIC (flagship), CUBIC, B-Ferst, SSTAR, GRACE, Circular Biocarbon, Bionanopolys, FIRST2RUN, BIO-QED, REBIOCHEM, BIT3G
• Ellen MacArthur FoundationcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerSignatory of New Plastics Economy Global Commitment and Cities and Circular Economy for Food Initiative. Catia Bastioli signed 'A Solution to Build Back Better' manifesto.
• ColdiretticoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPiano Coldiretti/Novamont for Agriculture 4.0 launched at G20. Sunflower oil chain for biolubricants and bioplastics.

Scale indicators9 records

Recent moves14 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Broad incumbents

• Corbion: Dutch food ingredients and biochemicals company with lactic acid and PLA joint venture (TotalEnergies Corbion). Adjacent incumbent with biopolymer feedstock and resin exposure.
• Arkema: Specialty chemicals producer with bio-based polyamides (Pebax Rnew) and other renewable-content polymers. Adjacent competitor in performance bioplastics with broader materials portfolio.
• BASF: Global chemicals major offering ecovio and ecoflex compostable bioplastic grades as part of a broader performance materials portfolio. Overlaps with Novamont in compostable packaging films and agricultural mulch films.

Direct peers

• NatureWorks: World's largest PLA bioplastic manufacturer, owned by PTT Global Chemical/Cargill. Directly competes with Novamont in compostable and bio-based polymer resins for packaging, food service, and fiber applications.
• TotalEnergies Corbion: Joint venture between TotalEnergies and Corbion producing Luminy PLA bioplastics. Directly comparable as a bio-based and compostable polymer resin supplier targeting packaging and consumer goods markets.

Emerging players

• Danimer Scientific: US-based producer of Nodax PHA bioplastic resins for compostable packaging and coatings. Competes with Mater-Bi in compostable plastics for food service and consumer packaging applications.
• Rodenburg Biopolymers: Dutch producer of starch-based bioplastics (Solanyl) for packaging and agricultural applications. Comparable European niche player in compostable bio-based resins.
• Cardia Bioplastics: Australian developer of compostable and bio-based resin blends for packaging applications. Similar product positioning targeting single-use plastic replacement.
• FKuR: German specialty compounder offering bio-based and compostable plastics (Biograde, Terralene, Ecoflex blends). Comparable as a mid-sized European supplier of compostable polymer compounds.
• Plantic Technologies: Australian producer of starch-based biodegradable packaging films. Comparable niche player in bio-based and home-compostable packaging materials.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• Facebookfacebook.com/novamont
• Xx.com/novamont

Compliance5 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles2 records

Subsidiaries3 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Novamont