Firmenich opens R&D centre for fragrances, flavours and ingredients in Shanghai
Aims to accelerate and expand development pipeline in China and Asia Pacific
Firmenich, a Swiss developer of fragrances, flavours and ingredients, has inaugurated a state-of-the art Research and Development (R&D) facility in Shanghai, China.
This new facility will integrate laboratories cutting across the Group’s leading scientific disciplines, including the discovery and development of ingredients, as well as technologies to improve fragrance and flavour performance, perception and delivery. Its scientists will be dedicated to expanding the Group’s innovation pipeline to best meet demand in China and the extended Asia Pacific region, while also contributing to the Group’s global innovation programmes.
‘Following the success of our first R&D facility in China in 2006, we decided to step up our innovation foothold here to further accelerate and expand our development pipeline,’ said chief executive Patrick Firmenich.
‘Our teams here are dedicated to developing cutting edge ingredients and technologies that are fully aligned with the specific needs of our clients in China and the Asia Pacific region.’
He added: ‘By deepening our understanding of the innovation needs in these markets, we are committed to supporting our clients’ growth in this dynamic region.’
Dr Dong Fang Chen, President China, Firmenich, added: ‘China has over two thousand years of rich heritage in flavours and fragrances. By expanding our R&D strength here, we are committed to understanding the diverse tastes and needs of Chinese consumers in order to design and create products that will delight them.’
The R&D building in China is the company’s third innovation hub worldwide, working closely with other centres in Europe (Geneva, Switzerland) and North America (Princeton, New Jersey). Its scientists also collaborate extensively with external partners, including start-ups and academic institutions.