Second Nature Brands, a leading snacks and treats company, announced the opening of its new Innovation Center at its Sanders Factory in Clinton Township which will house research and development for all the company’s brands, including Kar’s Nuts, Second Nature Snacks, and Sanders Chocolates.
“The new Second Nature Brands Innovation Center will further accelerate our innovation and product development process, enabling us to formulate and launch new products faster than ever,” says Jennifer Bauer, CMO of Second Nature Brands. “In this new Innovation Center, our team of diverse and experienced food scientists are focused on developing innovative snacks and treats products in the growing Better-for-You and Permissible Indulgence spaces.”
A research and development lab, temperature-controlled product storage area, and sensory research facility will all be featured at the Innovation Center. The center will also provide a space to collaborate with the company’s retail customer partners on developing new products that fulfill emerging market needs.
“Innovation has been part of our DNA for over a hundred years and is still thriving today,” says Victor Mehren, CEO of Second Nature Brands. “From our high-capacity, single batch kettle-cooked caramel making process, to pioneering Kar’s Sweet ‘N Salty Mix, we are inspired every day to explore new technologies and to find product opportunities. With the launch of our Innovation Center, we are investing in tools and resources to explore a broader universe of new products.”
Kar’s Nuts and Second Nature Snacks are the two of the top-selling trail mix brands in the nation. Sanders Chocolates is one of the largest kettle-cooked, small-batch crafters of sea salt caramel treats in the U.S.
“It is certainly nice to have the Innovation Center of a major company located in Clinton Township,” says Robert Cannon, supervisor, Clinton Township. “We appreciate Second Nature Brands’ investment in our community, and the job opportunities they make available to our local workforce, and we certainly appreciate their products.”
