Givaudan invests CHF 187 million in new Ohio production facility
Givaudan has broken ground on a state-of-the-art liquids production facility in Reading, Ohio, marking the company’s largest US investment in recent years. The CHF 187 million (about US$232 million) project underscores the Swiss flavour and fragrance manufacturer’s commitment to expanding its operational capacity in North America.
Facility specifications and timeline
The new site will occupy 24,000 square metres within a reserved land area exceeding 100,000 square metres (24.5 acres), allowing for future expansion. Construction is currently underway, with completion anticipated in 18 months and partial operations expected to commence in 2027. Upon full operation, the facility will create over 300 jobs across various skill levels.
“This new facility represents our largest investment in the US in many years, demonstrating the importance of the market to Givaudan and to the food and beverage industry,” said Gilles Andrier, Chief Executive Officer. “It is a tangible example of Givaudan’s 2030 strategy in action, strengthening our market and operational presence, extending customer reach, and advancing sustainable, innovative solutions that consumers love.”
Strategic positioning
The facility will complement Givaudan’s existing North American network, which currently comprises 17 locations across the United States and Canada. The investment aims to enhance the company’s ability to deliver tailored solutions to regional customers in the food and beverage sector.
Antoine Khalil, President Taste & Wellbeing, stated: “By expanding our operational capabilities, we’re positioning ourselves for future innovation as we continue to deliver tailored solutions within North America. Driven by the dedication of our employees, the new facility will strengthen our ability to help grow customer brands by delivering distinctive, memorable food experiences that resonate with consumers.”
Sustainability measures
The Reading facility incorporates several environmental initiatives aligned with Givaudan’s corporate sustainability objectives. Notably, the site will operate without natural gas, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The project will also implement carbon bed filtration technology as part of its environmental management systems.
Beyond operational considerations, Givaudan has announced community engagement programmes associated with the new facility, including educational initiatives developed in partnership with local organisations.
Givaudan, which operates in both Fragrance & Beauty and Taste & Wellbeing sectors, employed over 16,900 people worldwide in 2024 and achieved sales of CHF 7.4 billion with a free cash flow of 15.6%. The company’s heritage extends over 250 years in the flavours and fragrances industry.
The Taste & Wellbeing division focuses on flavours, taste, functional and nutritional solutions for the global food and beverage industry, positioning itself as a co-creation partner for product development.
For more information, visit: www.givaudan.com
