Patent for we:care² soap granules

For us at MANN & SCHRÖDER COSMETICS GROUP, this patent marks a special milestone. For the first time in 75 years, we have received official protection for one of our innovations—the innovative granule formula of our we:care² brand, which represents an important step toward a cosmetics industry free of single-use plastics.

Granules for personal care products already exist, but their quality has not been up to par so far. Many products became cloudy after mixing, felt slimy, or produced hardly any lather. Users had to choose: sustainability or a familiar care experience.

This is exactly the gap we wanted to close. Our research and development department has taken the decisive next step: Our patented formula dissolves into a crystal-clear, pourable hand soap or shower gel that feels just like a classic product in terms of consistency, scent, and lather. In this way, we combine environmental friendliness with genuine product quality.

The path to obtaining the patent was an intensive one. We began development in 2021, submitted the first version that same year, and subsequently went through three rounds of examination. Each round brought new requirements, additional tests, and extensive documentation. Our Research & Development and Process Development departments played a key role in this project.

“Four years of research, three rounds of examination, one result: our first patent in 75 years of company history. This is no coincidence—it is the result of a team that combines courage, perseverance, and a passion for innovation,” says our CEO Christine Steger.

Our patented granulate formula directly contributes to our 2030 sustainability strategy. By offering granulate-based hand soaps and shower gels, we can replace plastic bottles with paper sachets. Paper is made from renewable raw materials—unlike plastic, which is primarily based on fossil resources.

With we:care², our mission is to reduce single-use plastic by up to 90 percent without compromising on quality, sensory experience, or the joy of personal care. The now-patented formula forms an important foundation for this.

Looking Ahead
For us, obtaining the patent is not the end—it is the starting point. The further development of the patented technology and its application in additional product categories are already in the works.