Sapunoteka

Sapunoteka is a family business from the Šibenik hinterland founded in 2009 by chemist Marija Plavčić and a technologist Ivan Milišić.  Unlike many of their contemporaries who chose to pursue more lucrative careers abroad, Marija and Ivan decided to stay in their homeland, develop a sustainable enterprise, and offer products that are simultaneously local, natural, and aligned with modern, global trends. Almost two decades later, their soaps, creams, oils, lotions, and solid shampoos are now found on the shelves of many specialty shops, and pharmacies throughout Croatia, including Germany’s largest drugstore chain DM. 

Marija drew early inspiration from childhood memories of making soaps with her grandmother and grandfather. Through persistent iteration, she evolved the traditional formulas of the Dalmatian region and blended them with modern techniques and environmental considerations to develop Sapunoteka's unique signature. Her products are vegan, free from animal-derived ingredients, biodegradable, and presented in eco-friendly packaging made from recycled materials like aluminum tubes and raw cardboard. Their scents faithfully evoke their local origin: olive oil, lavender, sage, immortelle, and other ingredients sourced from domestic producers. Guided by principles of ecology, ethics, and expertise, Marija and Ivan continue to evolve their formulations, merging traditional knowledge with contemporary science.

Everything at Sapunoteka is created step by step at a natural pace, with great attention and respect for the environment and people. That is why, even as a small, family-run operation, they have built a distinctive brand and a growing community of loyal customers who appreciate their products and their commitment to health, nature, regeneration, and their unmistakably Dalmatian flair.