SWITZERLAND – Global flavours and fragrances company, Givaudan has invested US$120.2 million (CHF 120 million) in a new flagship Innovation Centre in Kemptthal, Switzerland to accelerate global research and innovation.
The center which was officially inaugurated by company alongside state officials includes a 12,000 square metre of workspace accommodating 300 employees.
The investment reinforces Givaudan’s efforts in creating differentiated and sustainable flavour, taste and fragrance solutions for the food & beverage and beauty, personal and home care industries.
This marks one of the company’s largest investment in research to date and is part of its global innovation ecosystem designed to leverage broad expertise in flavours, fragrances, active cosmetic ingredients and natural solutions.
“Building on our 250 years pioneering heritage, our new flagship centre is the latest example of Givaudan’s strong innovation culture,” said Gilles Andrier, CEO of Givaudan.
“As the newest addition to Givaudan’s vast network of research and creation centres, the Zurich Innovation Centre will act as a key enabler to deliver breakthrough science and technology solutions for our customers while tackling the industry’s most pressing challenges.”
Givaudan says the center will enable close collaboration and co-creation with its customers, partners and start-ups by creating a holistic customer experience on-site.
It brings together experts in chemistry, biotechnology, biocatalysis, fermentation, flavour delivery technologies, sensory and application science.
To drive speed and efficiency in new solutions while putting into consideration future consumer trends, the center enhances capabilities in unique sensory and consumer insight tools and SPRINT fast prototyping methodology.
Sustainable approach
For Givaudan, working to meet the demands of a growing population, finding innovative solutions and caring for the people and the planet is part of the sustainable business strategy as outlined in its ‘A Sense of Tomorrow’ approach.
The new building is one of Switzerland’s first facilities to receive a gold certificate from Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), the world’s most widely recognised green building certification system.
It fosters healthy, enjoyable and productive work through user-oriented workplace design that reduces water and energy consumption and improves environmental and economic efficiency by up to 45%.
