R&D Port Sunlight
Over 700 scientists work to create world-class innovative products that reach consumers via supermarket shelves around the world. Our scientists work on a range of global brands including Dove, Sunsilk, Lynx, Cif, Persil and Domestos.
We achieve much of our success by working across a network of Unilever R&D centres: scientists at R&D Port Sunlight work daily with Unilever colleagues based on every continent, from São Paulo, Brazil in the west to Shanghai, China in the east.
A commitment to exceptional science & technology
Each year, Unilever devotes approximately 2.5% of its yearly turnover to research and development – making us one of the Europe's biggest R&D investors in household care. This is a measure of our commitment to science and technology, the part it plays in the development of our products and brands as well as the performance and growth of our business.
Each year our work results in over 100 patent filings and approximately 140 peer-reviewed papers and conference presentations. The most sophisticated science available is applied to every product we sell to give you affordable, everyday brands that meet your needs. Our scientists enjoy being at the cutting edge of technology and gain personal satisfaction from seeing their innovations deliver practical results every day.
The centre has close links with international universities and consultants, and this allows our scientists to tap into the very latest scientific thinking. It’s a pioneering approach that has established Unilever R&D Port Sunlight as a centre of excellence for consumer goods research.
Success stories
The following products owe their success to innovative science from Port Sunlight:
- Comfort Fast Dry – our fastest drying fabric conditioner.
- Sure Crystal – the deodorant that doesn’t leave white marks on clothes.
- Dove – the deodorant that reduces the irritation that may be caused by shaving.
- Domestos active gel – our WC active gel, with unbeatable limescale removal, hygiene and freshness.
