Champion Petfoods unveils $32M Global Innovation and Discovery Centre in Alberta

Champion Petfoods today officially opens its $32 million Global Innovation and Discovery Centre at NorthStar Kitchen in Acheson, Alta.

The investment from parent company Mars is part of a broader commitment, which includes an additional $15 million CAD planned for Champion’s Canadian facilities over the next five years. The centre intends to strengthen Champion’s ability to develop, evaluate and refine new recipes, technologies and product concepts.

The facility will reportedly allow for Champion’s staff to work on their ORIJEN™ and ACANA™ brands before scaling them to its high-volume production Kitchens.

“The Global Innovation and Discovery Centre is a direct reflection of our BAFRINO mandate: our promise to craft food that is Biologically Appropriate, made with a variety of fresh, raw ingredients and to be never outdone,” said Stacey Osborn, President of Champion Petfoods. “This facility empowers our Associates to push the boundaries of pet nutrition, developing nutrient-rich foods with the speed, safety and scientific rigour that pet lovers expect from us. It’s an investment in the future of nutrition for cats and dogs and in our deep-rooted Canadian heritage.”

Per a press release, the facility also seeks to further Champion’s sustainable upcycling efforts by enhancing the nutritional value of its ingredients through proprietary expertise.