Chief Technology Officer
"Sika’s long history of innovation has led to unparalleled success in becoming a recognized global technology leader in many markets, as well as creating value for Sika’s customers." Frank Höfflin, CTO, Sika AG

Innovation and Development

Sika Labs in Preston, UK

Sika’s research activities are carried out at its 20 Global Technology Centers, with Switzerland as a key location. The research program targets the development of proprietary technology that provides key performance benefits and thus allows Sika’s product platforms to respond to global trends such as resource saving building methods, energy-efficient and low-emission construction materials, high-speed manufacturing methods, or lighter and safer vehicles.

Key projects focus on high-performance molecules with tailored features, smart refining techniques for polymers and surfaces, and digitalized manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing, allowing not only high-precision automation, but also individualized production of complex components and structures, both in the laboratory and in full-size production.

Customer-Focused Development

Team R&D South Africa on site with a customer

A Sika employee's objective is to meet all of today's challenges that customerst face by launching new products in response to tighter regulations for adhesives and sealants as well as developing new solutions to meet the ever-greater demands in terms of easy and efficient application and environmental compatibility. Research activities are carried out by more than 900 employees at 20 Global Technology Centers. 44 local and 20 regional research and development facilities are globally aligned to Sika Technology AG.

Sika Technology AG targets the development of proprietary technology that provides key performance benefits and allows Sika’s product platforms to respond to global trends, such as resource-saving building methods, energy-efficient and low-emission construction materials, high-speed manufacturing methods, or lighter and safer vehicles.

Intellectual Property

Sika Brands

Innovation has a long-standing tradition within Sika, and “courage for innovation” is one of the corporate values. Sika maintains exclusivity over its innovative products through the systematic registration of its intellectual property rights. 133 new inventions were reported in 2018 (2017: 112) and 85 new patent applications were filed (2017: 81). By the end of 2018, Sika’s patent portfolio included more than 800 unique patent families with more than 3,400 single national patents.