The center will focus on several strategic areas; health and nutrition, new raw materials and product research and development, consumer insight and foresight activities.
Scientific talent
Giovanni Ferrero, CEO, Ferrero, said Singapore represents a dynamic and innovative environment where scientific talent and resources combine with diverse Asian consumer demographics.
“This offers an ideal platform for experimenting with novel technologies and raw materials to develop and test new products in a market of strategic importance for Ferrero,” he said.
The decision to open the Ferrero Innovation Center in Singapore was motivated by its strategic location in Asia and its prominent role within the global scientific research community, which includes among others, the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and relevant universities.
The centre is supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), a multidisciplinary team of experts in food science, biotechnology, nutrition, consumer insights, material science and design.
Rapidly expanding consumer market
“Ferrero’s decision to establish its first global Innovation Centre in Asia, in Singapore, reflects the significance of the rapidly expanding consumer markets in Asia, and underscores Singapore's position as the region’s leading food and nutrition hub,” said Dr Beh Swan Gin, chairman, EDB.
“We look forward to having Ferrero work with partners in Singapore to develop unique product offerings.”
The Ferrero Group employs more than 41,000 people across 53 countries with 22 production plants around the world. Its portfolio includes; Nutella, Ferrero Rocher, Raffaello, Tic Tac and the Kinder line (Kinder Surprise, Kinder Joy, Kinder Bueno, Kinder Chocolate, Kinder Milk Slice, Kinder Pingui, Kinder Delice).