Swiss flavors and fragrance maker Givaudan has begun construction on its new innovation centre in Kemptthal, Switzerland, cementing its biggest investment in a research centre thus far.

According to the company, the new CHF 120 million research centre, set to open in 2019, will ‘use the latest in design and collaboration technologies to stimulate creativity and interaction between diverse functions and teams in both flavours and fragrances, tapping into the broader community of innovators located on-site.’

Speaking at an opening ceremony, Dr Jürg Witmer, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Givaudan, said, “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.”

The new site will be constructed in accordance with the LEED Gold sustainability standard to meet stringent sustainability requirements with the buildings integrating an atrium as a shared meeting space for meetings and exchange.

Research areas will cover organic chemistry, naturals such as fermentation and biocatalysis, to flavour creation and application science, as well as delivery systems. Meanwhile the site will also have socio-economic significance, creating a further 300 jobs in addition to the 200 already held in Kemptthal.

Carmen Walker Späh, Councillor of the canton of Zurich, said, “The new research centre demonstrates an impressive level of commitment by Givaudan to the site in Kemptthal, guarantees jobs and strengthens Zurich’s reputation as a highly innovative canton.”