Givaudan starts construction on new innovation centre in Switzerland
The facility is the result of a CHF 120 million investment by the company, which it says demonstrates a commitment to providing the next generation of solutions for its fragrance and flavours customers worldwide.
A ground-breaking ceremony took place recently, which was attended by local government officials and Dr Jürg Witmer, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Givaudan.
Givaudand’s biggest investment in research
Dr. Witmer underlined the importance of the investment to the company in a presentation he gave at the ceremony, stating:
“This is Givaudan’s biggest investment in a research centre to date, reflecting the importance of innovation within our 2020 strategy of long-term value creation. It underlines our commitment to create responsible and sustainable growth by building close partnerships with innovators, our customers, engaged employees and academia.”
Construction of the facility will take approximately three years, with the opening anticipated some time in 2019, and will tap into the latest design as well as collaborative technologies to ensure the development of cutting edge flavour and fragrance solutions.
Touching on key areas of innovation
The facility will herald innovation in key areas of ingredient development, including organic chemistry, naturals such as fermentation and biocatalysis, flavour creation and application science, as well as delivery systems.
As well as the extensive laboratory facilities, the centre will also include a shared space for meeting and exchange, while the entire facility is being constructed to LEED Gold sustainability standard in an effort to minimise the environmental impact of the construction.
The building will provide a working space for 300 employees in addition to the 200 jobs that are already located at the company’s existing Kemptthal facility.
