UNILEVER PARTNERS WITH CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY ON NEW OPEN INNOVATION PROJECT
15th February 2007
Unilever and the University of Cambridge’s Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) today announced the launch of a new research project to explore how companies can successfully implement a radical approach to collaboration in the research and development process, known as ‘open innovation’. Commissioned by Unilever, the research will explore how large, established companies can collaborate with early stage firms, scientists and academia in order to deliver innovations to market more quickly and improve marketplace competitiveness.
Led by Dr Tim Minshall, of the IfM, the 12-month study will examine the potential models, benefits, challenges and skillsets required for companies participating in open innovation. It will also explore how collaboration can be managed among a variety of different types of organisations, from academia and large companies to early stage and entrepreneurial firms.
Unilever is keen to embrace an open innovation culture. The research will build on Unilever’s expertise within this field and work undertaken at the company’s research and development centre at Colworth Park, Bedfordshire. Colworth Park is already a vibrant science park and aims to be the destination of choice for scientists, large established research and development companies as well as small entrepreneurs.
Dr Sally Ann Forsyth, Business Development Director, Unilever Colworth Park commented: “This partnership with the University of Cambridge is an exciting new development for Unilever. It builds on our excellent relationship with the University and progress we have already made in this area. We look forward to working with Dr Minshall and his team to better understand how companies can make open innovation flourish and deliver differentiated products to improve marketplace competitiveness.”
Notes to editors
About the IfM –
The Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) is part of the University of Cambridge Department of Engineering. Its activities encompass industrial services, research, education and courses that aim to provide a clear understanding of the challenges facing manufacturing today. The IfM works closely with industry at regional, national and international levels providing strategic, technical and operational expertise to help companies to grow and to become more competitive. This work brings benefits to both parties. Industry receives practical solutions based on the latest applied research. The university receives live feedback to help set the agenda for new research and an income stream to assist in funding future research activities.
About Unilever -
Unilever’s mission is to add vitality to life. We meet everyday needs for nutrition, hygiene and personal care with brands that help people feel good, look good and get more out of life.
Unilever is one of the world’s leading suppliers of fast moving consumer goods with strong local roots in more than 100 countries across the globe. Its portfolio includes some of the world’s best known and most loved brands including twelve €1 billion brands and global leadership in many categories in which the company operates. The portfolio features brand icons such as: Knorr, Hellmann’s, Flora, Bertolli, Dove, Lynx, Sunsilk, Persil, Cif and Domestos.
Unilever has around 206,000 employees in approaching 100 countries and generated annual sales of €40 billion in 2005. For more information about Unilever and its brands, please visit www.unilever.com.
