University news

A collaboration between the University of Glasgow and the UK’s largest soap manufacturer has been hailed an “extraordinary success” after achieving top marks from UK government officials.

The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between Soapworks Ltd and the University has delivered significant benefits to all partners over its three-year duration, culminating this month in the project receiving the highest possible grade of ‘Outstanding’ from the KTP Grading Panel at Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency that oversees the scheme.

This recognition highlights the remarkable impact of the collaboration on both the industry and academia, showcasing how strategic partnerships can drive innovation and excellence, according to the University’s Dr Manlio Tassieri, the KTP knowledge-based supervisor who has been involved in the collaboration.

Soapworks Ltd, which is based in Glasgow, was established in 1988 by Anita Roddick, founder of The Body Shop. Over the years, it has evolved through various ownerships, including L’Oreal, before achieving independence in 2010. In 2018, Soapworks was acquired by the Daabon Group from Santa Marta, Colombia.

As the demand for sustainable solid alternatives to water-based liquid cleansers has grown, Soapworks has recognised a significant opportunity to innovate and diversify its offerings by producing synthetic detergent (syndet) products, which are characterised by their lower pH levels and are ideal for hair, face, and body care.

However, Soapworks has faced considerable challenges due to its limited experience with syndet production and the lack of a dedicated R&D division.

The partnership with the University was established to bridge this gap. Leveraging the University's expertise in rheology, materials science, and computational fluid dynamics, the project aimed to deepen Soapworks' understanding of syndet processing.

This collaboration was expected to enhance operational planning, improve product quality, reduce energy costs, and optimise workforce efficiency, ultimately positioning Soapworks as a leader in syndet products and significantly expanding its market presence.

Under the leadership of Dr Tassieri, the partnership has achieved groundbreaking results. One of the most significant outcomes was the development of a novel experimental method for measuring the rheological properties of soft solids, such as soap.

This discovery was so impactful that it led to the filing of a patent owned by Soapworks, demonstrating the project's potential to revolutionise industry practices and create new market opportunities.

The academic outcomes of the partnership were equally impressive, positioning the University of Glasgow for future research impact assessments and opening doors for further industry collaborations. The success of this KTP underscores the tremendous value of research-industry partnerships in addressing real-world challenges and driving progress.

In summary, the KTP between Soapworks Ltd and the University of Glasgow has not only met but exceeded its objectives, delivering transformative results that have positioned both partners for continued success.

According to Dr Tassieri, the ‘Outstanding’ grade awarded by the KTP Grading Panel is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit that fuelled this collaboration. This partnership exemplifies how industry and academia can work together to achieve extraordinary outcomes, setting a new standard for future collaborations.

Dr Tassieri, at the University of Glasgow’s James Watt School of Engineering, said: “We are delighted that our Knowledge Transfer Partnership between the University of Glasgow and Soapworks Ltd has been awarded the highest possible grade of ‘Outstanding’ by the Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Partnerships Grading Panel.

“This recognition is true testament to the incredible collaboration, innovation, and hard work of everyone involved: Simeon Skopalik, Claire Smart, Manosh Paul, Kate Beaumont, Brian Cumming, Stuart Seddon, Jim Berryman, Eileen Maltby.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to all our partners, colleagues, and supporters who contributed to this remarkable achievement. Your dedication and teamwork have made a significant impact, and this recognition is something we can all be proud of.”

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) are a long-standing collaborative process that create positive impact and drive innovation, providing a three-way partnership where the academic partner helps to recruit a graduate, known as the KTP Associate – in this case Dr Simeon Skopalik - who is employed by the university but works at the company for the duration of the project.

Daabon Group are globally recognised as No1 in sustainability and corporate transparency for Palm Oil production and as such, Soapworks can offer its clients the highest level of certified sustainable palm and a full chain of custody from the “Soil to the Market” for their solid soap and cleansing bars. Soapworks operates from a 63,000 sq.ft facility at Queenslie Park, employing 65 people and serving a large client base that includes major retailers and international premium brands.

Brian Cumming, Managing Director, Soapworks Ltod, said: “It has been a privilege and a pleasure to be a part of such a challenging and innovative project. The blend of talent from academia and industry working hand in hand for a mutual outcome was inspiring.

“Completely different perspectives and thought processes combined over three years to reach the recognised achievements. Both teams were outstanding in their dedication, and I am convinced we will continue to collaborate on future initiatives and KTP projects.

“The team all merit special thanks for their invaluable contribution to the project’s success. Congratulations to Manlio Tassieri ,Simeon Skopalik, Manosh Paul Claire Smart, Kate Beaumont, Stuart Seddon, David Ridland, Jim Berryman, Eileen Maltby.

“The achievement of the team is only the foundation for what will follow, and the application of the technology will underpin our operations and process which will fuel our competitiveness and growth for the future. Thanks to everyone involved for a truly inspiring journey and outcome.”

Mel Anderson, Head of Commercialisation at the University of Glasgow, said: “This is a great recognition for the very productive collaboration between the University and Soapworks Ltd.

“It shows the significant benefits collaboration with university research leaders in their field, such as Manlio Tassieri, can offer local companies seeking to innovate in their markets. We look forward to deepening the university’s collaboration with Soapworks.”

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First published: 20 August 2024