Unilever announced on Thursday its intention to develop a new Global Innovation Center in New Haven, CT. This nearly $300 million investment is confirmation of the company’s focus on the U.S. as a growth market.
The investment builds on the nearly $15 billion that has been put into the U.S. market over the past decade, including acquisitions and capital investment. It is also a recognition of the company’s commitment to reshape product categories in consumer products, incorporating bioscience, quantum computing, and material science.
Herrish Patel, President of Unilever U.S., said, “When something works here and it resonates with U.S. consumers, it will soon be adopted around the world. As part of Unilever’s global network of innovation hubs, the center will share technology, insights, and breakthrough ideas to accelerate innovation at scale.”
Unilever’s success in the U.S. provides a model for multinational companies navigating an era of rising nationalism, social media-driven disinformation, and accelerating e-commerce innovation. It also reflects the central role of the U.S. in the global economy as both a growth engine and entrepreneurial hub. We will continue to work with clients in key markets such as China, India, and Brazil on comparable projects of national significance and global relevance.
Richard Edelman is CEO.
