IMCD Expands Operations With New Technical Centres In Dubai Science Park To Boost R&D Capabilities

IMCD, a global leader in distributing speciality chemicals and ingredients, has chosen Dubai Science Park for its new laboratory complex. This facility highlights the UAE's expanding role as a research and development hub. The 4,160 sq.ft. centre includes dedicated floors for food and beverage (F&B) and coatings and construction (C&C) Technical Centres. It is equipped to meet regional market needs through various development, testing, and analysis activities.

IMCD Middle East aims to expand in the F&B sector across the GCC, Jordan, Lebanon, and Egypt. The company also targets growth in the C&C segment throughout the region using these new facilities. Manuel Baumann, Managing Director of IMCD Middle East, noted that the labs reflect increasing demand for specialised testing and formulation expertise in the region.

The inauguration was attended by several senior officials. Among them were Valerie Diele-Braun, Global CEO of IMCD; Lars Wallstein, Managing Director of IMCD Germany; Manuel Baumann; Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi from Dubai Science Park; and Vargheese Anthony from Al Futtaim Logistics.

Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi emphasised that science-led advancements are crucial for the UAE’s sustainable development vision. He stated that material development and testing are vital for strengthening Dubai's value chains across key industries. "The launch of IMCD Middle East’s labs further enriches the contributions of our ecosystem towards national priorities such as food security and sustainable construction," he said.

IMCD's food labs are designed to support new product development with capabilities like texture analysis and sensory evaluations. These services will benefit businesses in sectors such as bakery, dairy, beverages, culinary arts, snacks, savoury items, and confectionery by leveraging IMCD’s ingredient portfolio.

Enhancing Building Techniques

The C&C labs focus on developing more sustainable building products in areas like waterproofing and coatings. This aligns with Dubai's position as an innovation hub. Baumann added that their expansion will aid regional food security and promote environmentally friendly building techniques.

The establishment of these laboratories is aligned with Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’, Dubai Research and Development Programme, and We the UAE 2031 initiatives. These efforts aim to drive science-led progress while shaping future developments in various sectors within the UAE.

This strategic move by IMCD underscores its commitment to fostering innovation in the Middle East while supporting local manufacturers with tailored solutions for product development.

With inputs from WAM