Unilever has announced plans to develop a new Global Innovation Centre in New Haven, Connecticut which will act as the central site for the organisation’s research and development efforts.

The new site is set to open by spring 2029, at which point it will be the global centre for Unilever’s research into human physiology, skin care, fragrances, and packaging.

Unilever said the centre is located near several prominent universities and companies specialising in the biosciences, and has received support from the State of Connecticut to advance research into how quantum and AI technologies can drive innovation in the sector.

It will succeed Unilever’s existing R&D site in Trumbull, Connecticut, and will provide jobs for approximately 300 Unilever employees.

Unilever has allocated $50 million in capital expenditure for the project, investing a total of $270 million in the project over the long term. Including private and public funds, the project is backed by more than $300 million.

Herrish Patel, president of Unilever USA and chief executive of personal care North America, said: “New Haven gets us to the future faster. Our Global Innovation Centre is where we'll innovate at the intersection of science, technology and culture – for the US and for the world. We will build on our deep heritage of innovation to develop the next generation of brands and products that people love.

“As part of Unilever’s global network of innovation hubs, the centre will connect closely with our other leading locations worldwide, sharing technology, insights, and breakthrough ideas to accelerate innovation at scale. As the US becomes a centre of gravity for Unilever, we’re harnessing the best of American innovation to match our growth ambition here in the US and around the world.”

Unilever has made several investments into its R&D capacity and digital footprint in recent months, after signing a new five-year partnership with Google Cloud in February to support agentic commerce. Last week the multinational consumer packaged goods company, headquartered in London, completed a £150 million investment into its production and distribution site in Liverpool.

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