Colour it green as Sparxell makes more progress in $48bn market
The LVMH-backed creator of the world’s first 100 per cent plant-based colourant has been recognised at the ChangeNOW Summit in Paris.
Sparxell is offering a scalable alternative to synthetic colourants across the fashion and cosmetics industries. It was named among the ChangeNOW Change100 winners for 2025, a list of the top sustainability startups to watch this year.
The company was additionally distinguished with the jury’s “Coups de Cœur” recognition in the fashion category, highlighting its game-changing potential to transform the fashion sector.
Chosen by a distinguished panel of experts, Sparxell joins an elite group of solutions demonstrating exceptional impact potential, scalability and business viability while creatively rethinking industry standards.
Dr. Benjamin Droguet, Founder and CEO of Sparxell said: “Being selected as a Change100 winner and receiving the jury’s “Coups de Cœur” fashion recognition validates our mission to revolutionise how industries approach colour.
“This comes at a pivotal moment as we scale our technology to transform how the entire fashion industry approaches colour. Through this innovation, we’re not just creating sustainable products —we’re helping shape a world where beautiful, high-performance materials work in harmony with nature rather than against it.”
The ChangeNOW Change100 and “Coups de Cœur” selections evaluate solutions based on their positive impact addressing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, potential for scalability, creative approach to rethinking industry standards and viable business models.
Sparxell’s recognition highlights the growing market demand for sustainable colour alternatives that eliminate harmful chemicals while maintaining premium quality. This recognition comes as Sparxell continues to build impressive commercial traction.
The company recently secured a €1.9 million grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC), adding to investments from the L’Oréal-backed Circular Innovation Fund and support from Innovate UK.
Sparxell has also established strategic partnerships with luxury brands under LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE (LVMH), La Maison des Startups LVMH.
Founded in 2023 by University of Cambridge scientists Dr. Droguet and Professor Silvia Vignolini, the company creates biodegradable colour pigments, glitters, sequins, paints and films that are plastic-free, toxin-free, and fully biodegradable. The patented technology replicates vibrant natural colours using cellulose-rich sources such as wood pulp through structural colour principles.
As a member of Cambridge Enterprise’s investment portfolio, Sparxell partners with companies across various industries, including leading automotive manufacturers, high-end fashion brands, and cosmetic goods manufacturers.