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JBT Marel, a provider of automation and technology solutions for the food and beverage industry, has unveiled a newly renovated Customer Innovation Center (CIC) in Lakeland, Florida.
The upgraded facility is designed to support processors across multiple categories, from fresh fruits and vegetables to ready meals, beverages and dairy, offering an immersive environment where customers can test, validate and scale production technologies in a real-world factory setting.
JBT Marel operates dozens of Customer Innovation Centres worldwide, where food and beverage manufacturers collaborate directly with technical experts to run product trials, evaluate equipment performance and address operational challenges related to efficiency, quality and regulatory compliance.
The Lakeland CIC serves as both a working production stage and demonstration space, showcasing integrated equipment lines and digital solutions.
Customers can participate in private demonstrations, attend industry events, engage in hands-on training or explore production environments through virtual reality (VR) simulations.
“At JBT Marel, we are committed to transforming the future of food in ways that create a positive impact and lasting value for our customers, our communities and the global food system,” said Brian Deck, CEO of JBT Marel.
A key enhancement at the Lakeland site is the addition of a new microbiology lab, complementing revitalised analytical and wet chemistry laboratories. These facilities enable customers to evaluate product quality, safety, formulation integrity and packaging performance before committing to full-scale production.
By conducting testing on-site, manufacturers can shorten development timelines and reduce downtime that would otherwise be required for in-plant testing or third-party laboratory services.
The in-house lab capabilities are expected to play a critical role for processors navigating evolving food safety standards and growing consumer demand for transparency and quality assurance.
Deck continued: “Our Customer Innovation Centres reinforce that mission by enabling customers to test, validate, and scale technologies that help feed the world more responsibly.”
The renovation also introduced a modern, second-level, all-glass customer lounge overlooking the production floor, offering visitors a comprehensive view of live equipment demonstrations.
A dedicated VR Immersive Space allows guests to experience complete production lines in operation, enhancing both training and equipment evaluation.
“JBT Marel has been in Lakeland for over 84 years, growing alongside the region and supporting the local business economy,” Patrick Canning, Lakeland general manager at JBT Marel, said.
“The re-imagining of this CIC not only allows for elevated guidance for our customers, but it also underscores a continued investment into the local community.”
The updated centre now features three distinct equipment bays, enabling the company to exhibit more comprehensive processing lines and deliver fuller system demonstrations aligned with customer production goals.
JBT Marel operates more than 50 manufacturing and distribution facilities globally and continues to expand its integrated portfolio of equipment, service, software, and application expertise.
