Optigenex signs distribution agreement for cosmecueticals ingredient
AC-11 is a patented botanical extract derived from the Uncaria tomentosa, a vine that grows in the Amazon rainforest commonly known as ‘cat’s claw’.
According to Optigenex, the ingredient helps the body’s natural ability to repair damaged DNA as a result of overexposure to the sun and other environmental stress factors, a claim supported by independent clinical trial results.
Distribution rights in key markets
In accordance with the agreement, Promethean will hold exclusive distribution rights for the North American market in the direct sales distribution channel, taking over from a former licensee who previously held similar channel rights.
Additionally, Promethean is granted exclusive licensing and sub-licensing rights in all channels in China, and certain additional non-exclusive channel rights in North and Central America and Australia, said Optigenex.
As well as supplying the AC-11 ingredient, which can be used in any number of cosmetic and cosmeceutical products, Optigenex also offers a finished product line of three cosmeceutical skincare products; day, night and eye cream.
Optigenex President and CEO, Dan Zwiren, said that Promethean Corporation will have the option to either formulate its own skincare products using the AC-11 ingredient, or to use Optigenex’s existing formulations with Promethean’s own packaging.
Strategy to establish AC-11 as international brand
Optigenex hopes to establish AC-11 as an internationally recognized brand, with an important step in this direction being the signing of a Turkish distribution deal.
After being approached by Istanbul-based Ekson Farma, Optigenex signed an agreement with the company last year for the distribution of its skin care products in Turkey, under the brand name Activar, as well as Activar-branded oral supplements.
The AC-11 ingredient is also widely used in the Japanese market. Optigenex supplies it to partner organization Itochu Corp, who in turn supplies it to around 50 cosmetics companies in Japan.
Zwiren said that in the future, Optigenex will be looking to expand its market reach through the distribution of its products in Europe.
