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Kerry has opened its new Customer Co-Creation Centre in Taguig City, the Philippines, aiming to strengthen partnerships and accelerate food innovation across Southeast Asia.

The opening of the facility builds on Kerry’s decade of previous operations in the Philippines, where it has reported steady growth across three key business channels: retail, foodservice chains and brands.

Designed as a modern hub for thought leadership and customer collaboration, the 716-square-metre space features specialised labs for hands-on innovation. These include dedicated sweet, savoury and meat labs, as well as a customer suite for beverage solutions brand DaVinci Gourmet's clients and a culinary test kitchen for foodservice and retail partners.

The opening ceremony was attended by Emma Hickey, Ambassador of Ireland to the Philippines, highlighting the ties between the Philippines and Kerry’s Irish roots.

PwC's 2025 Voice of the Consumer report shows that 67% of Filipino consumers cite nutritional value as a key factor when purchasing food, while 45% look for budget or value brands to manage rising costs.

Products with natural ingredients, added fortification and clean labels are in high demand, reflecting a strong preference for healthier options.

Additionally, a 2024 global survey on the State of Snacking showed that the Philippines tops the world in snacking – but recent surveys suggest 99% of Filipino snackers practise mindful snacking, with 91% pairing indulgent treats with healthier options and 80% seeking portion-controlled snacks.

Jacinta Macapugay, country head and commercial lead, Kerry Philippines, commented: “As Filipino consumers seek healthier, more convenient and better-value choices, our investment is about empowering our teams and partners to co-create the future of food”.

She added: “Together, we can navigate changing consumer preferences and enable faster, more relevant innovation that meets the evolving tastes and needs of Filipino consumers, celebrate the vibrant food culture of this nation and drive sustainable growth for years to come”.