Speed to market
When it comes to innovation, speed is critical. We test our innovations quickly in a commercial environment, using rapid prototyping, AI-guided concept generation and advanced production facilities on our R&D sites.
We've also adopted a fast-track process to funding that funds promising bottom-up innovations outside of standard budget cycles.
Aside from our in-house work, we're developing strong external partnerships with academia, students, suppliers and startups. This enables us to quickly identify good ideas and reduce time to market.
R&D Accelerator
Our R+D Accelerator network consists of 14 sites across eight countries. It unites scientists, students, startups and Nestlé intrapreneurs to accelerate the development of innovative products and systems. With full access to our R&D infrastructure, teams can bring ideas from lab to launch in six months, following a lean startup mentality.
Spotlight: Sundial Foods
Sundial Foods, a California-based startup, has developed a plant-based alternative to the traditional chicken drumstick. By joining our R+D Accelerator, they were able to scale their idea by developing and launching their product in a retail environment.
We foster creative entrepreneurial behavior, and provide the teams with access to scientific, technical and business expertise, prototyping and mini production facilities – everything that's required to ensure speed to market.
See inside our R&D Accelerator
Nestlé's R&D Accelerator network was launched in 2019. Since then, over 300 participants have completed the program, which aims to take highly differentiated innovations from idea to shop in 6 months.
See how it works.
Some recent fast-track launches
- Wunda, a versatile pea-based milk alternative that's nutritious and carbon neutral
- Gerber Soothe 'n' Chew, a first-of-its kind natural teething stick for babies
- Nescafé Gold Roastery Collection - a premium, barista-style range of soluble coffees
- Garden Gourmet Sensational Burger, a delicious plant-based burger with a Nutri-Score 'A' rating.
