Nestlé to Open New Deep Tech Center in Switzerland in 2026

A new deep tech center is set to open at Nestlé’s System Technology Center in Orbe, Switzerland, as part of the food and nutrition giant’s expansion into cutting-edge technology. This center will focus on innovations ranging from robotics and smart coffee machines to precision nutrition, aimed at enhancing the company’s operational capabilities.

Expansion of Technology and Innovation

Scheduled to launch in the first half of 2026, the new center will build on Nestlé’s existing expertise in sensor systems, product recognition, remote control, and display solutions. The initiative aligns with Nestlé’s mission to accelerate its digital transformation into a fully connected enterprise that leverages data and artificial intelligence for real-time decision-making. This strategic shift comes under the leadership of CEO Laurent Freixe, who succeeded Mark Schneider last fall.

Focus on “Big Bets” for Growth

Under Freixe, Nestlé is concentrating its investment on groundbreaking innovations, termed “big bets.” One notable example is the Nescafé Espresso Concentrate, which provides consumers the convenience of preparing café-style cold espresso drinks at home. Furthermore, the company is actively working to establish new growth platforms in nutrition, particularly targeting women’s health.

Leveraging AI and E-commerce

Nestlé is expanding its capabilities in artificial intelligence, especially within e-commerce. This technology enables the optimization of digital shelves and the creation of personalized content, enhancing the consumer shopping experience.

Innovative Solutions for Coffee Machines

According to a recent company release, the upcoming deep tech center will be pivotal in screening, testing, and developing new generations of sensors, robotics, coding systems, high-performance AI, and virtual/mixed reality solutions. These advancements are expected to improve efficiency across research, innovation, and operational domains.

New technologies will facilitate the creation of smart coffee machines, precision nutrition solutions, self-regulating equipment, and dynamic quality assurance methods.

Advancements in Nutritional Research

Nestlé is also set to enhance its research and development capabilities in biotechnology and clinical research, leading to innovative nutritional solutions. These advancements are expected to bolster Nestlé’s consumer-focused innovation pipelines, particularly in areas such as maternal and medical nutrition, healthy longevity, women’s health, and weight management.

The company also plans to apply science-based solutions to its pet care segment, including the development of pet therapeutics.

New Developments in Bioactives and Biotics

The new center will also focus on developing advanced screening assays and improving precision fermentation techniques. This initiative aims to produce highly effective bioactives and biotics, including postbiotics and synbiotics. CTO Stefan Palzer stated that this biotechnology capability will lead to the development of clinically validated ingredients for precision nutrition tailored for both humans and pets throughout their lifespans.

Funding and Resources

Details surrounding the funding and resource allocation for the center have not been disclosed. However, it has been indicated that existing resources will be reallocated to support the center’s establishment. These investments will be facilitated by a more efficient R&D organization, agile work practices, a focused project portfolio, and the redeployment of current R&D resources.