The centre has been designed for collaborative development between Firmenich chefs, flavourists and food scientists and customers throughout Europe, and completes a strategic investment in its savoury business, according to a company statement.
“Based on the continued growth of our customers in Eastern Europe and given Vienna’s central location, we are excited to have made this strategic investment,” said vice president of Savoury Europe Ricarda Maywald.
“Opening this facility marks an important milestone for our Savoury business in Europe and for our clients. We have created a modern, well-equipped flavour and food development facility in a dynamic and cosmopolitan city.”
President of Firmenich Flavours Aldo Uva said: “This investment underlines not only our desire to be closer to our clients in the market place, but also our commitment to growing our savoury business as a key segment in our Flavours Division. This facility is another great asset for our company and will allow us to continue to expand our savoury application and technology capabilities.”
Eastern European demand for savoury flavours in snacks and packaged foods has also led other flavour firms to invest in the region. Earlier this month, Givaudan opened a new €130m production facility in Makó, Hungary dedicated to savoury flavours, which the company says reflects growing demand for savoury flavours in emerging markets.
And International Flavours and Fragrances (IFF) said earlier this week that it would invest $50m in its existing Turkish facility over the next three years, in order to support the company’s development in emerging markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.