The Politecnico di Milano is participating in the Lombardy Technology Cluster for the Made in Italy – Cosmetics System, a new regional ecosystem dedicated to the competitive and innovative development of the cosmetics supply chain.

Promoted by the Lombardy Region as part of its research and innovation policies, the Lombardy Technology Cluster serve as platforms for collaboration between universities, research centers and businesses. Recognized as the tenth regional cluster, the Cluster dedicated to the cosmetics sector was established with the aim of strengthening the innovative capacity of one of the most significant industrial sectors for the Lombardy and European economies. This sector is characterized by a strong focus on research, exports and the integration of scientific and industrial knowledge.

The POLIMI School of Management of Politecnico di Milano plays a central role within this ecosystem, focusing on innovation, digital transformation and the sustainability of production models to bridge the gap between research and industry. The School supports the Cluster in evolving the organizational and production models of cosmetics companies, strengthening the integration between product and process innovation.

As Luca Fumagalli, full professor at the POLIMI School of Management and Chair of the Cluster’s Scientific Committee and representative of Politecnico di Milano, emphasises, innovation in the cosmetics sector cannot be separated from its industrial and managerial dimensions:

“Innovation in the cosmetics sector necessarily involves production processes. Even the best product, to become a successful innovation, must ensure economic viability and sustainability—factors closely linked to business performance and long-term employment in the sector. For this reason, research and innovation in cosmetics play a fundamental role not only in product development, but also in the evolution of production processes.”

The Lombardy Made in Italy Technology Cluster – Cosmetics System is a strategic platform that fosters collaboration between industry and academia, accelerates innovation processes, and strengthens the international standing of Lombardy’s cosmetics sector.

The Politecnico di Milano, the University of Milan, the University of Milan-Bicocca and the University of Pavia are participating in the cluster alongside other institutions, helping to build an integrated ecosystem of research, training and technology transfer.

Our School is therefore strengthening its role as a key player in developing managerial knowledge and skills to support the transformation and competitiveness of the Italian industrial system.