About us
We are VUP, a Slovak company with decades of expertise in petrochemical and organic chemical research, development, and production. We deliver innovative chemical solutions, industrial ecology services, and analytical support to partners across Slovakia and beyond.
Message from our CEO
"At VUP, we stand on decades of know-how and strong international relationships built through real collaboration — with research partners, industrial customers, and technology developers around the world. Our goal is to keep that momentum alive: to channel our scientific experience into innovation, to create distinctive chemical specialties, and to bring original technologies from our laboratories into global practice.
Our mission is simple but demanding: to keep pushing our research and production forward through smart, innovative approaches, while holding ourselves to the highest standards in service and delivery. When we do that well, we open new opportunities — for our partners, our people, and the industry we are part of."
- Roman Karlubík, CEO of VUP, a.s. , LinkedIn
Our Mission & Values
Our mission is to continuously accelerate our research and production by applying innovative solutions, while maintaining excellence in service and delivery that creates opportunities for our partners.
Core Values:
- Innovation & Expertise: Driven by scientific curiosity and 70+ years of accumulated knowledge.
- Quality & Excellence: Committed to the highest standards, validated by ISO 9001 and accredited laboratories.
- Partnership & Collaboration: Building strong, transparent relationships with clients, suppliers, and employees.
- Sustainability: Operating responsibly with commitment to sustainable practices and regulatory compliance.
A Timeline of Innovation
VUP, a.s. has a rich history rooted in the petrochemical industry, evolving into a modern center for specialized chemical research and production.
Pre-1996
This foundational era saw the establishment of the Research Institute of Petrochemicals in Prievidza, laying the essential groundwork for future chemical expertise and innovation. Notably, even before the formal creation of VUP, a.s. as it is today, a dedicated focus on cosmetics began in 1990. This early specialization allowed the company to build significant expertise in the cosmetics sector from its nascent stages.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Establishment of the Research Institute of Petrochemicals
Development of foundational chemical expertise and innovation groundwork
Initiation of a dedicated focus on cosmetics (Since 1990)
Accumulation of significant early expertise in the cosmetics sector
Foundations & Early Specialization
Establishment of the Research Institute of Petrochemicals
1996
VUP, a.s. was officially founded, directly succeeding the Research Institute of Petrochemicals. This pivotal year marked the beginning of its journey as an independent entity, transitioning from its research institute origins into a company poised for specialized chemical research and production.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Formal establishment of VUP, a.s. as an independent entity
Direct succession from the Research Institute of Petrochemicals
Commencement of operations focused on specialized chemical research and production
Company Formation
Formal establishment of VUP, a.s. as an independent entity
2004-2009
During this period, VUP, a.s. intensified its focus on specialized chemical research and development. Significant efforts were dedicated to areas such as acetylene-based products, catalysts for polyurethanes, adipic acid dihydrazide, and TEMPO alongside its derivatives. The company also concentrated on the production of key intermediates like colaminophosphate and w-bromo-α-alkenes, building a strong portfolio of specialized chemical capabilities.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Significant research into acetylene-based products and polyurethane catalysts
Development work on adipic acid dihydrazide and TEMPO derivatives
Production focus on key intermediates like colaminophosphate
Expansion of expertise in specialized chemical production
Focused R&D and Production Development
Significant research into acetylene-based products and polyurethane catalysts
2010-Present
During this period, VUP, a.s. significantly advanced its specialized chemical R&D, focusing on areas like acetylene-based products, polyurethane catalysts, and TEMPO derivatives, while also producing key intermediates. Simultaneously, the company solidified its international presence through global collaborations and over 900 patents. This era was further marked by a strong commitment to quality (ISO 9001, SNAS S-118 Accreditation) and sustainability (Responsible Care®, EcoVadis Silver Medal 2025), all supported by ongoing strategic investments in R&D, pilot plants, and production scaling to ensure continued leadership.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Continued R&D and production of advanced materials (e.g., polyurethane dispersions, high-purity amines)
Development of new products from acetylene and bioglycerol
Successful collaborations with global chemical producers and over 900 patents
Maintained ISO 9001, achieved SNAS S-118 Accreditation, and awarded EcoVadis Silver Medal (2025)
Ongoing strategic investments in R&D facilities, pilot plants, and production scaling
Advanced Innovation, Global Reach & Sustainability
Continued R&D and production of advanced materials (e.g., polyurethane dispersions, high-purity amines)
Our Team: The Experts Behind VUP
At VUP, our strength lies in our dedicated and experienced team of scientists, engineers, technicians, and professionals. We foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.
Ing. Peter Grolmus
Director of Research & Development
Overseeing VUP's extensive R&D programs, driving innovation in chemical synthesis, process development, and new product creation.
Ing. Ján Chalupka
Head of Sales Department
Managing VUP's Sales strategy, client partnerships, and market development for our diverse product and service portfolio.
Ing. Ľudovít Žiak, PhD
Head of ATBEL Division (Analytical, Technical-Safety, and Ecological Laboratories)
Leading our SNAS S-118 accredited laboratories, ensuring high-quality analytical services, technical safety testing, and environmental monitoring.
Ing. Denisa Juríčeková
Head of Production Department for Cosmetics
Overseeing the development, manufacturing, and quality assurance of VUP's cosmetic products, including custom and private label solutions.
Ing. Stanislava Némethová
Head of HR Department
Managing talent acquisition, employee development, and fostering a positive workplace culture that supports VUP's growth and innovation.
Ing. Kurinec Robert
Head of Production
Leading production operations, ensuring efficient manufacturing processes, quality control, and continuous improvement in chemical production.
Mgr. Zuzana Štepaníková Bridová
Head of Economics Department
Overseeing the economic analysis and financial planning initiatives, ensuring strategic financial management and business development.