Swedish Match to open US R&D facility

Swedish Match is set to open today its $3.5 million, 10,000 sq. ft. Owensboro Research & Development Center in Kentucky, US, according to a story in the Owensboro Messenger Inquirer, relayed by the TMA.

The new facility is said to feature newly designed laboratories, a sensory test space, a controlled environment storage chamber and a microbiological testing area, as well as open office and meeting spaces.

Rich Flaherty, president of Swedish Match’s US division, Joakim Tilly, president of the company’s Scandinavia division, Thord Hassler, vice president of research and development, and Kristian Lindfors, manager of the Owensboro Production Facility, are due to speak at the opening ceremony.

Madison Silvert, president of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corp., said the center would “help change the nature of our economy” by attracting more research and development projects.

Lindfors said the company wanted researchers to create new products at the facility and create more jobs.