To prevent the damage of products from microbial growth, it is essential to control the growth of microbes. Microbial growth also affects the aesthetics and functionality of certain products. However, antimicrobial protection has revolutionized surface cleanliness to enhance the durability of products. The use of antimicrobial technologies has proven to be an essential factor in helping to reduce damage-causing microbial growth. Similarly, odor control technologies are also critical to effectively preventing odors in products and extend their lifespan and durability. Founded in 1984, Microban® International has grown to become the global leader in antimicrobial additives and odor control solutions. Its mission is to redefine clean with protection that lives on, without impacting product aesthetics or functionality. Its surface cleaning solutions for homes and hospitals are the world’s first and only technologies to provide lasting antibacterial performance for up to 24 hours, even after multiple touches.
At the helm of Microban® International is its President, Michael Ruby. He has diverse experience in leading global sales, marketing, technology, and innovation teams in antimicrobial additives, branded ingredients, formulated disinfectants, specialty chemicals, engineered materials, composites, water treatment, and capital equipment sectors.
Microban International is home to the most trusted and well-known global brands in the antimicrobial, odor control, and sanitization/disinfection markets: Microban® and Ultra-Fresh®. Consumers and business decision-makers worldwide associate its brands with proper cleanliness, enhanced product performance, and added peace of mind. Microban® International is the world’s leading innovator in antimicrobial, odor control, and surface modification technologies. Added at the stage of manufacture or applied topically, its proactive systems protect products against degrading microbial growth.
Creating Tangible Benefits for End-Users
Microban develops partnerships centered on collaborative transformation, product differentiation, and the creation of tangible benefits to end-users. Its technologies can be adapted to any substrate or product, and are essentially organized into three categories:
- Built-in antimicrobial product protection – incorporated during manufacturing and remains active for the product’s life, keeping it cleaner by providing lasting product protection against the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, and algae.
- Odor control for textiles, apparel, and footwear – addresses ‘permastink’ in wearable goods.
- Continuously active disinfection and sanitization solutions – delivering 24-hour performance in the home, professional, and healthcare sectors:
- Microban 24 is a multipurpose cleaner and sanitizing aerosol spray for home and professional surfaces.
- Sani-24 is available in ready-to-use spray or wipe formats for healthcare disinfection applications to decrease occurrences of hospital-acquired infections.
These technologies can be applied to clothes, bedding, or appliances in consumers’ homes and offices, advancing cleanliness to new levels.
Ensuring Cleanliness and Protection of Products
Microban is more than just the company name; it’s a global trust mark and a leading ingredient brand carrying over 65 % awareness among consumers. Consumers worldwide associate Microban with true cleanliness and rely on the products developed from its partnerships to deliver enduring protection. Microban assists its partners in the development of innovative products, from concept to launch and beyond.
Microban begins the conversation with a prospective partner by going through a deep discovery process to understand the nature and performance of their product. Microban guarantees that when it adds antimicrobial efficacy, it doesn’t alter the functionalities or aesthetics of the product. To this end, Microban has a variety of technologies that are compatible with different manufacturing processes and materials, ensuring they are invisible yet always active and effective.
Once Microban has determined the right tailored solution for each product – looking at everything from the appropriate technology to match manufacturing and materials to regulatory and legal considerations. Its commercial and marketing teams work closely to develop impactful messaging and provide sales and claims training. Including the Microban brand on products and packaging is a point of difference for hundreds of companies worldwide, who experience wider coverage, better support, and greater market impact.
Being Confident with Efficacy of Antibacterial Products
The COVID-19 pandemic has redefined the world, and consumers are more anxious than ever about the cleanliness of the surfaces they touch. A recent study conducted by Microban found that over 70 % of adults are concerned about their exposure to microbes. This is driving increased awareness, and, currently, 90 % of adults are using antibacterial products and are confident with their efficacy.
Driven by Core Values
Microban is proudly an employee-owned company with five core values:
- Customer-driven – delivering best-in-class solutions and results.
- Personal accountability – employees act like owners because they are.
- Continuous improvement – being a change agent.
- Collaboration – employees develop better solutions by working together.
- Integrity – an unwavering moral compass ensures employees do the right thing.
Focusing on Sustainability and Expanding Portfolio
Antiviral technologies, and solutions that offer a wide range of antimicrobial properties, will be increasingly popular in the future. Furthermore, everyone is looking for greener solutions and more sustainable options, as opposed to chemical-based technologies. That’s why Microban’s R&D in recent years has focused on sustainability and replacing the chemical products on the market. In 2022, Microban will launch a novel antimicrobial technology based on a naturally occurring substance and a range of antiviral treatments. Microban will also expand its portfolio to include two non-toxic odor control technologies in textiles processing, targeting apparel fabrics and home and hospitality materials. Finally, Microban 24 residual sanitizing products will extend its global presence – including in Mexico and China – and new scents and sizes will cater to different markets.
Advancing Material Protection and Cleaning Technologies
Microban is proud to heavily contribute each year to the great work and lifesaving mission of the St. Jude Hospital. Microban will continue building meaningful relationships and focusing on new investments in breakthrough technologies, positioning the two to develop powerful and trusted brands. Microban is committed to extending its market-leading position and will always stay focused on advancing material protection and cleaning technologies to provide added peace of mind to product users.
Helping Partners Attain Desired Outcomes
Microban is honored to have hundreds of partnerships with leading brands and manufacturers worldwide, protecting thousands of products in the consumer, building, textiles, commercial, and healthcare sectors. Microban works with GE Appliances, Mannington Mills, Spectrum, Nike, Under Armour, Poly, Manchester Mills, PVH, and Newell Rubbermaid, as well as with Procter & Gamble to develop Microban 24 and Microban 24 Professional. Microban’s partners have been with the company for a decade on average, highlighting how partners attain their desired outcomes using Microban’s technologies. Microban’s website – www.microban.com – contains more information on its antimicrobial solutions and partnerships.
