Hormel Foods Opens Idea and Innovation Center in China

AUSTIN, Minn. -- Multinational consumer-branded manufacturer and marketer Hormel Foods Corp., based here, yesterday opened an Idea and Innovation Center in China, a 5,000-square-foot facility dedicated to developing products for the Chinese market.

The center adjoins the Hormel Foods processing facility in the Baoshan district of Shanghai. The entire creative process, from ideation to testing and manufacturing, will occur at the center, which features a sensory panel room for evaluation of products, along with a fully functional duplicated plant.

"As we continue to grow internationally, it is essential we adapt to changing local tastes, cultures, and lifestyles," said Hormel Foods International Corp. president Richard A. Bross in a statement. "The new Idea and Innovation Center in China will help us build our diversified product portfolio and better serve our Chinese customers."

"This new facility represents the future of Hormel Foods, combining local expertise, a heritage of innovation and 116 years of quality," noted Hormel chairman, president, and c.e.o. Jeffrey M. Ettinger. "Our local meat experts will work closely with our Research and Development team in the United States as they lead this facility and guide the innovative process."

Overseen by Rubin Lin, research and development manager for China, and Mike Forbes, manager of production for China, the center will serve Hormel Foods facilities in both Beijing and Shanghai.

Hormel already has a significant presence in Asia, with business ventures in China, the Philippines, South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. Last year the company was named the processed meats supplier to the Training Bureau of China State Sports, where the Chinese Olympic athletes train.
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