Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), particularly ibuprofen. It serves as a chiral building block in pharmaceutical manufacturing, enabling the production of enantiomerically pure forms of active drug substances. Its structure allows for efficient conversion into the final API through oxidation or catalytic transformation. Also utilized in the development of fine chemicals and specialty esters for fragrance applications due to its aromatic and aliphatic characteristics.