Upfield plans to build Food Science Centre in Netherlands

Plant-based butter and spreads producer Upfield Group has announced its plans to open its new Food Science Centre in Wageningen, the Netherlands, with a €50m investment.

According to the plans submitted to the Works Council, the company intends to open the new facility by the end of next year.

Headquartered in Amsterdam, Upfield is engaged in the production of plant-based margarines, spreads and cheeses.

Upfield Group CEO David Haines said: “The announcement today demonstrates our commitment to ambitious and pioneering research and development. Our track record is good. Since Upfield was established less than two years ago, we have already launched new and industry-leading plant-based cheese, cream and butter products.

“The new Upfield Food Science Centre will allow us to accelerate our ambitious agenda and develop even more options so people can enjoy great-tasting, natural, plant-based foods that are not only beneficial to their health, but to the planet.

“As a global leader in plant-based nutrition, we are extremely excited by what this investment means for the future of the category.”

The company stated that its move to build the new facility demonstrates its commitment to developing food from plants and using sustainable packaging solutions.

Wageningen was chosen as the location for the new Food Science Centre as it is considered to be the Silicon Valley of the food industry and food innovation.

Upfield Group chief research and development officer John Verbakel said: “Investment in the new Upfield Food Science Centre will give us access to state-of-the-art equipment, technology and an inspiring and creative network of individuals and companies, allowing us to really push the boundaries of what we can achieve in natural, plant-based foods innovation.

“It is exciting to be part of a company committed to such a large-scale investment, which recognises the importance of food science and plant-based foods.”

Additionally, Upfield submitted plans to build a new global headquarters by the end of next year.

In January, Upfield Group completed the acquisition of dairy-free cheese manufacturer Arivia. Upfield Europe, one of its group companies, executed the deal.