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Ferrero North America, part of the Ferrero Group, has announced the opening of its new Innovation Center and North America R&D Labs in Chicago, Illinois, US. The new 45,000-square-foot facility brings together Ferrero's R&D teams from throughout the US and houses teams working on Keebler, Famous Amos, Mother's, Fannie May, and other brands in the Ferrero portfolio – with a total of more than 150 employees. Ferrero says that the new research and development centre will be used to develop new cookies and other treats. Alanna Cotton, president and chief business officer of Ferrero North America, said: "Our new Innovation Center and R&D Labs here in Chicago reflect Ferrero's rich heritage and will foster the creativity and culture that Ferrero known for around the world. Investments like this help us create high-quality, innovative products that will become a special part of Americans' lives and further drive category growth in confections, cookies and beyond." The investment expands Ferrero's footprint in Illinois – where the company already manufactures Butterfinger, Baby Ruth, Keebler, Crunch, 100 Grand, and other products. Additionally, Ferrero is currently building a new chocolate processing facility and a new Kinder Bueno production facility in Bloomington, Illinois. Chicago’s Mayor, Brandon Johnson, commented: "Chicago's innovation is not only propelling the growth of iconic global brands like Keebler, Famous Amos and Fannie May, but it's also cementing our city's reputation as a prime destination for the world's best talent and businesses. Congratulations to the Ferrero team on this remarkable achievement.” You may also like to read: