Last month saw refrigerated side dish processor Reser’s Fine Foods officially open its newly completed Customer R&D Center at the company’s Beaverton, Ore., headquarters near Portland.
“For more than 60 years, we’ve helped customers innovate and bring valuable new products to market,” said Chairman Al Reser. “This flagship facility shows our ongoing commitment to innovation and to helping our valued customers find, and profit from, the next big idea.”
Officials say the 10,000-square-foot facility features a development lab that mimics major restaurant chain operations, bench top product development tools and retail product development areas filled with consumers’ kitchen appliances.
“This is where ideas become a reality,” added Barbara Jordan, director of research and development, and head chef. “Many retailers are looking for ways to offer a restaurant-like experience in their in-store delis. And many foodservice operators want to entice budget-conscious consumers back into restaurants with unique menu items and greater value. In our R&D Center, we have the tools, culinary expertise, market leadership and passion to help customers achieve these, and other, business goals.”
Officials say Reser’s offers regulatory, safety and scientific technical resources. The company also is certified by the Food Marketing Institute’s Safe Quality Food (SQF) Institute.
Reser’s employs more than 2,000 associates at 12 production and distribution facilities nationwide. Its brands include Reser’s American Classics deli salads, Reser’s Sensational Sides side dishes, Baja Café Mexican Foods and Stonemill Kitchens premium dips.
