Copptech™ Antimicrobial Technology: Company Profile

Background

Overview

Copptech™ Antimicrobial Technology, founded in 2016 in Santiago, Chile, specializes in developing environmentally friendly antimicrobial solutions that effectively eliminate bacteria, fungi, and viruses upon contact. The company's mission is to enhance public health and safety by integrating antimicrobial properties into various materials, thereby reducing the transmission of harmful pathogens. Copptech's vision is to become a global leader in antimicrobial innovation, offering sustainable and effective solutions across multiple industries.

Industry Significance

Operating within the biotechnology and chemical sectors, Copptech addresses the growing global demand for antimicrobial products. The antimicrobial ingredients market was valued at $4.7 billion in 2020, driven by increased hygiene awareness and the need for environmentally friendly antibacterial solutions. Copptech's innovative approach positions it as a significant player in this expanding market.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Copptech aims to develop and commercialize antimicrobial technologies that are both effective and environmentally sustainable. The company focuses on creating products that integrate seamlessly into existing manufacturing processes, thereby enhancing product durability and safety without compromising performance.

Areas of Specialization

The company specializes in formulating antimicrobial additives that can be incorporated into various materials, including textiles, plastics, paints, and building materials. These additives provide long-lasting protection against pathogens, extending product lifespans and improving hygiene standards.

Key Technologies Utilized

Copptech's proprietary technology harnesses the antimicrobial properties of copper and zinc, combined with organic active ingredients, to create a protective barrier that eliminates pathogens upon contact. This technology is EPA-registered and has demonstrated a reduction of over 99.99% in bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Primary Markets Targeted

Copptech's antimicrobial formulations are marketed to a diverse range of industries, including:

• Medical Facilities: To reduce the transmission of viruses and bacteria.

• Food Packaging: To extend the shelf life of perishable goods and reduce waste.

• Textiles: To prevent discoloration and odor in clothing.

• Construction Materials: To provide mold, fungi, and termite-resistant properties.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Copptech has secured significant investment to fuel its growth and expansion:

• Series B Funding (August 2022): The company raised $6 million in a Series B funding round, indicating strong investor confidence in its business model and growth prospects.

• Growth Equity Investment (October 2022): Foresight Group, a private equity and infrastructure investment manager, invested £5 million to support Copptech's expansion into European and North American markets.

Utilization of Capital

The capital raised is intended to:

• Expand Market Reach: Increase sales teams and operations in Europe and North America.

• Enhance Research and Development: Develop new antimicrobial formulations and applications.

• Strengthen Operational Infrastructure: Support scaling manufacturing capabilities to meet growing demand.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Copptech is actively developing several antimicrobial products, including:

• Food Packaging Solutions: Innovative packaging materials that incorporate antimicrobial properties to extend the shelf life of perishable goods.

• Textile Treatments: Antimicrobial coatings for fabrics to prevent odor and bacterial growth, enhancing the durability and hygiene of clothing.

• Construction Materials: Additives for building materials that provide resistance to mold, fungi, and termites, improving the longevity and safety of structures.

Stages of Development

These products are in various stages of development, from initial research and formulation to pilot testing and commercial production. Copptech collaborates with industry partners to accelerate the commercialization of these innovations.

Target Conditions

The primary conditions targeted by Copptech's products include:

• Bacterial Infections: Reducing the spread of harmful bacteria in medical and public environments.

• Fungal Growth: Preventing mold and mildew in construction materials and textiles.

• Viral Transmission: Minimizing the spread of viruses through contaminated surfaces.

Anticipated Milestones

Copptech aims to achieve the following milestones:

• Product Launches: Introduce new antimicrobial products to the market within the next 12-18 months.

• Market Expansion: Establish a significant presence in North American and European markets by 2026.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Copptech's core technology involves the integration of copper and zinc with organic active ingredients to create antimicrobial additives. These additives can be incorporated into various materials, providing long-lasting protection against pathogens. The technology is EPA-registered and has demonstrated a reduction of over 99.99% in bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Significant Scientific Methods

The company employs rigorous scientific methodologies, including:

• Antimicrobial Efficacy Testing: Conducting tests to measure the effectiveness of antimicrobial formulations against various pathogens.

• Material Compatibility Studies: Ensuring that antimicrobial additives do not adversely affect the physical properties of base materials.

• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to international standards and obtaining necessary certifications for product safety and efficacy.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Francisco Silberberg: Co-Founder and CEO. Francisco has a background in chemical engineering and has been instrumental in developing Copptech's core technologies.

• Jeffrey Halliwell: Chairman. Jeffrey brings extensive experience from his previous role as Managing Director of a large European antimicrobial business.

• Luis Moura: Global Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Luis has a strong background in operations and finance, overseeing Copptech's global operations.

• Luis Améstica: Chief Technology Officer. Luis leads the R&D team, focusing on the development of new antimicrobial formulations and applications.

• Jose Mendiburo: Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer. Jose is responsible for driving revenue growth and expanding Copptech's market presence.

Leadership Changes

In October 2022, Foresight Group's investment led to the appointment of new senior management members:

• Graham Sanders: Appointed as CEO, bringing 25 years of experience in the chemicals sector.

• Jeffrey Halliwell: Appointed as Chairman, formerly the Managing Director of a large European antimicrobial business.

• Rasih Ozturkmen: Joined as Non-Executive Director, with expert knowledge of the textiles industry.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The antimicrobial ingredients market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increased hygiene awareness and the demand for environmentally friendly solutions. The market has grown at a combined annual growth rate of 9.8% since 2013, with growth accelerating due to increased hygiene awareness following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Competitor Analysis

Copptech faces competition from several companies in the antimicrobial technology sector, including:

• BioCote: Specializes in antimicrobial additives for various materials.

• Sanitized: Offers antimicrobial solutions for textiles and polymers.

• Microban International: Provides antimicrobial and odor control technologies.

• HeiQ Materials: Develops textile technologies with antimicrobial properties.

• Polygiene: Focuses on permanent odor control and antimicrobial treatments.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Copptech has established several strategic collaborations to enhance its market position:

• Purra Performance: An American insole manufacturer and OEM supplier that integrates Copptech's antimicrobial technology into its footwear and sporting products.

• Yumanpack: A Mexican company specializing in packaging solutions for the protein food industry, incorporating Copptech's antimicrobial technology to extend the shelf life of meat products.