Used primarily in organic synthesis as a reagent for introducing the 2-phenylbutyryl group into various molecules. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and fine chemicals. Additionally, it is employed in the development of agrochemicals and specialty chemicals, where it acts as a building block for creating complex structures. Its reactivity with nucleophiles makes it valuable in acylation reactions, enabling the modification of compounds for enhanced biological or chemical properties.