Unilever Plans New Haven, Connecticut, Innovation Operations

Area Development News Desk

06/04/2026

Consumer products manufacturer Unilever plans to establish operations in New Haven, Connecticut. The $270 million project is expected to create approximately 300 jobs.

The investment will include the construction of a 200,000-square-foot Global Innovation Centre, located at 2 Church Street, which will serve as an R&D hub for the company's personal care, beauty, and wellbeing brands. Operations are scheduled to begin in 2029.

“Trumbull served us well for 60 years. It was no longer a site for the future,” said Leo Quiono, Senior Vice President of Unilever. “We looked extensively in many different locations, including outside of the state, and we decided to maintain the R&D side in the state of Connecticut, in the City of New Haven.”

To support the project, the State of Connecticut is providing a $10 million forgivable loan tied to job retention commitments. “I think people are starting to see companies like Unilever want to be in the State of Connecticut,” noted Daniel O’Keefe, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.

Unilever manufactures and markets food, beverage, personal care, home care, and wellness products. The company’s operations include product development, manufacturing, marketing, and global distribution across a portfolio of consumer brands.

“This investment further strengthens Greater New Haven’s position as a center for innovation, research, and talent,” added Michael Piscitelli, President and CEO of the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. “The decision by Unilever to locate its Global Innovation Center in New Haven reflects the region’s growing appeal to companies seeking access to world-class research institutions, a highly skilled workforce, and a collaborative business environment.”

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