Firmenich Expands Footprint in Africa With State-Of-The Art Flavors Facility in Nigeria

03 Aug 2016 --- Confirming its commitment to Sub-Saharan Africa, Firmenich is proud to announce the opening of a new, state-of-the-art Flavors facility in Lagos, Nigeria. Designed to successfully expand the company’s market reach for Flavors across the region, this new facility features labs for Sweet Goods, Beverages, and Savory product development, as well as offices.

Through this strengthened presence in Nigeria, Firmenich aims to accelerate its innovation to meet the needs of its customers across the 30 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

“This significant investment reflects the strategic importance of Sub-Saharan Africa to Firmenich, with its population of 800 million and strong growth potential,” says Gilbert Ghostine, CEO, Firmenich. “We aim to further expand our reach across this high-growth region by developing winning technology solutions for our customers.” 

“Nigeria will serve as a critical business and innovation hub for Firmenich to strategically serve our customers across the wider Sub-Saharan Africa region,” said Chris Millington, President of Firmenich Flavors. “Our investment in this state-of-the-art facility will enable us deliver the most innovative, consumer-focused flavor solutions and best-in-class services to our customers and their consumers.”  

“By increasing our proximity to Nigerian consumers, we will focus on creating flavors that appeal to the rich and diverse culture of Nigeria and its neighboring countries,” said Oddvar Bjorge, VP Flavors, Sub Saharan Africa, Firmenich. “For instance we look forward to expanding our industry-leading seafood flavor range and exploring other iconic tonalities.” 

Building on Firmenich’s partnership with the Yaba Institute of Technology in Nigeria to drive technology solutions adapted to the Sub-Saharan market, this expanded presence will enable the company to accelerate its innovation capability. The leading Flavor house will focus on health and nutrition, unique tonalities reflecting local preferences and competitive cost-in-use flavors for all segments of the food industry across this strategic market.