Henkel Launches Global Competition for New Ideas
Henkel, the maker of brands like Dial, Loctite, Purex, Dep and Duck brand, launched the "Henkel Innovation Trophy" competition, which invites all independent inventors to submit their creative ideas for an opportunity to be reviewed and evaluated by Henkel. The objective is to add further impetus to Henkel's own innovation efforts. The awards for the winners include cash prizes plus the chance to join Henkel in the commercialization of the associated proprietary rights. Last year Henkel declared 2006 to be its "Year of Innovation" and will continue the program into 2007 with a view to involving all its employees throughout the world in the conception of new products. Henkel has long collaborated for innovation with external partners such as research institutes, universities and similar organizations, as well as utilizing the expertise available from its own R&D activities. The concepts need to offer a good fit with the portfolios of Henkel's four business sectors: Laundry & Home Care, Cosmetics/Toiletries, Consumer and Craftsmen Adhesives, and Henkel Technologies (adhesives, sealants, and surface treatments).