Mondelēz International opens brand-new Consumer Research Centre in Bournville

Mondelēz International has opened a new state-of-the-art Consumer Research Centre in Bournville, following a £3.3 million investment that will shape the future of product development for iconic brands such as Cadbury, Toblerone and Milka, and be home to over 50 chocolate tasters.

The brand-new facility, which opened last week (Thursday 19 June), brings together Mondelēz International’s sensory and consumer research capabilities under one roof, creating a central hub to shape the next generation of innovative snacking products.

Over 50 newly trained Sensory Panellists, also known as chocolate tasters, will be based at the Consumer Research Centre and will play a crucial role in product development by using their expert sensory skills to provide feedback on characteristics including the taste, texture, and aroma to ensure all products meet the highest standards.

The new 806m2 facility is also home to dedicated spaces for consumer research, where focus groups, in-depth studies and collaborative product creation will take place.

In addition, advanced technologies, including augmented reality and high-tech development kitchens, will enable the leading global snacking company to experiment with new recipes and bring new ideas for consumers to life.

The Consumer Research Centre is based in the company’s existing Global Centre of Excellence for Chocolate Research and Development in Bournville, where every chocolate product that Mondelēz International makes and sells in over 150 countries begins its development.

Louise Stigant, Senior Vice-President and Managing Director for UK&I at Mondelēz International UK, said:

“The opening of our brand-new Consumer Research Centre demonstrates our ongoing commitment to world-class innovation. Bournville is our Global Centre of Excellence for Chocolate Research and Development and we are hugely excited with this new addition.

“By bringing together cutting-edge technology, sensory expertise and real consumer insights, the facility will ensure that we can continue adapting to evolving consumer trends and expanding choices for consumers, as well as enable us to continue to innovate and lead the future of snacking.”

Sally Loughlin, Vice-President for Consumer Science Research and Development at Mondelēz International UK, said:

“The new £3.3million Consumer Research Centre will play a crucial role in all our research and development across the globe. We can’t wait to begin working in the new facility and continue to lead the future of snacking.

“Within it we will welcome consumers to co-create and provide vital feedback on new chocolate recipes and innovations, and it will also be home to over 50 trained sensory panellists, or chocolate tasters, who will use their sensory skills to provide vital feedback on the characteristics of our new creations.”

Mondelēz International supports over 10,000 jobs across the UK, directly employing 4000 people. Nearly 3,000 of these roles are based In the West Midlands across its Bournville manufacturing plant, Global R&D hub, office, Marlbrook Dairy factory (Herefordshire) and Minworth distribution centre.