Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ketoprofen and related analogs. Its ester and methoxy functional groups make it suitable for coupling reactions and ring modifications in organic synthesis. Commonly employed in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) due to its ability to serve as a building block for arylpropionic acid derivatives. Also utilized in research settings for the preparation of novel bioactive molecules and in the optimization of synthetic routes requiring substituted benzoate esters.