The German research centre of US consumer goods giant Procter & Gamble (P&G) is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and will be focusing more on data-driven research and AI-supported development processes in the future. The German Innovation Centre (GIC) in Schwalbach am Taunus near Frankfurt, with 1,400 scientists from over 60 countries and more than 30 scientific disciplines, is now P&G's largest research location outside the US. In 2000, the company began to consolidate and expand its German research activities in the Rhine-Main metropolitan region in order to identify trends early on and develop new technologies and products. The company emphasises that many innovations from Germany are now setting standards worldwide.

Network of research and production

The GIC is part of P&G's global innovation network, which drives continuous and disruptive developments. The facility works closely with its own production facilities, industry partners and start-ups, and maintains intensive collaborations with scientific institutions such as the Fraunhofer Society. The company announced that the GIC intends to further expand its international "Connect+Develop" network in the future. New, open innovation formats and joint test environments are intended to translate breakthroughs into marketable solutions more quickly. The focus is on data-driven research and AI-supported development processes. The GIC is also working on material-efficient, recyclable solutions, the reduction of CO₂ emissions and water- and energy-saving processes. The spectrum ranges from bio-based materials to durable, repairable electrical appliances. Extended training and further education programmes are also planned to attract skilled workers.

Pioneering work since 1985

The research centre traces its origins back to a small pioneering group that has been active in Germany since 1985. Since the GIC was built in Schwalbach in 2000, the growing team has focused primarily on innovations for feminine and baby hygiene, oral care, hair and skin care, and health products. The acquisition of Gillette in 2005 provided a further boost through the addition of electromechanics and electrical engineering for shaving and personal care products in Kronberg. "The GIC's success story is based on the impetus provided by our interdisciplinary teams of experts," emphasises Heiko Tischler, Vice President R&D and Managing Director of the GIC. Innovation is now becoming increasingly digital, networked and sustainable. P&G is active in 70 countries and stands for brands such as Always, Ariel, Braun, Gillette, Head&Shoulders, Lenor, Oral-B, Pampers and Pantene.

Source: P&G