Reckitt launches R&D centre in Singapore geared to serve all markets worldwide

Spanning approximately 5,000 square feet, the facility, which has a key focus on ASEAN, builds upon Reckitt’s network of regional hubs across China, India, the US, and the UK.

Reckitt, the company behind familiar consumer brands such Air Wick, Dettol, and Strepsils, has launched its new research and development (R&D) centre in Singapore, which will serve markets worldwide with a key focus on the ASEAN region.

Through the new centre, located at Nucleos on Biopolis Road and launched on Tuesday (18 July 2023), the group aims to spearhead advancements in health and hygiene innovation on a regional and global scale.

About the R&D Centre

Spanning approximately 5,000 square feet, the R&D Centre in Singapore builds upon Reckitt’s network of regional hubs across China, India, the US, and the UK.  The centre will focus on innovative and sustainable product formulation, testing, and packaging, starting with Dettol.

One of the innovations to arise from this centre is the use of compaction technology to minimise water consumption during product preparation, particularly for the instant powder to liquid hand wash. This, the company shared, will allow for reduced packaging and water usage while maintaining consumers’ personal hygiene.

Supported by EDB, Reckitt shared that it has made strategic investments in the development of this R&D Centre to bolster their commitment to innovation and to advance health and hygiene standards through collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships. It opens up job opportunities for both local and regional talent including in areas of research, product development, consumer science and quality.

"Reckitt’s decision to set up its R&D Lab for 'personal care' in Singapore is a testament to our strong position as an innovation hub for businesses. Reckitt will be able to tap on the established network of scientific institutions and research talent base in Singapore, to drive advancements in its Personal Care portfolio.

The new lab will help Reckitt be closer to the growing consumer market in Southeast Asia and enable the company to create new products for the region," Cindy Koh, Executive Vice President, Accounts, EDB, commented.

On the topic of the job opportunities, in response to queries by HRO, Reckitt said as of today (Wednesday, 19 July 2023), the centre is 14-people strong with a mix of local and regional talent, as well as three job openings – in product development, packaging development, and the clinical/medical team.

Lead image / Provided