Vlaardingen R&D is the research centre for Unilever’s foods brands, and in addition the development centre for Spreads and Dressings brands and Food Solutions. It also houses the regional development centre for Home Care and Personal Care. Work at Vlaardingen adds to Unilever’s capability across three distinct areas: research, product development and implementation. Research focuses on innovations around key capabilities such as new leads and scientific evidence for functional benefits, superior sensory quality, and processes and structures for natural, sustainable products. Global product development creates new technologies for new products, to be rolled out to benefit consumers all over the world. Regional product development and implementation brings new innovations to the regions by implementing global mixes for local markets, adapting if necessary to local needs.
