Pepsico opens research and development base in Cork

R&D:PEPSICO HAS opened a new research and development centre in Cork. The Little Island facility, which employs 18 food scientists and engineers, represents a €10 million investment in the company's Irish operations.

The company, which is the second largest food and beverage business in the world, already employs 600 people in Ireland in the areas of manufacturing, finance, business information and shared services.

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton said the centre was a “very welcome addition to the growing list of world-leading companies who are locating R&D facilities in Ireland”.

PepsiCo senior vice-president and general manager of worldwide flavours Mike Engler said the investment would provide a springboard for expansion and jobs.

Mr Engler said: “Having seen at first hand the tremendous work and results achieved by the Ireland R&D team over the past five years, I have no doubt that this new state-of-the-art facility will serve to further enhance their contribution”.