Kenvue, a global consumer health company headquartered in the United States, reaffirmed its commitment to the Chinese market by highlighting its ongoing investments in research and development facilities in Shanghai.

Gift Arpaporn Samabhandhu, president of Kenvue China, underscored the significance of the Chinese market during a media interview on June 16, noting that China's performance remains a key focal point for multinational corporations like Kenvue across Asia and worldwide.

In China, Kenvue operates two research and development centers, four factories, and 10 logistics hubs, while employing approximately 1,600 professionals.

The products manufactured in Shanghai are distributed to numerous countries, including Japan and Australia, encompassing a wide array of renowned brands such as Listerine, Tylenol, and Motrin.

Yan Liang, the head of the supply chain at Kenvue China, attributed the remarkable efficiency of operations to "Shanghai speed", driven by intelligent manufacturing practices.

Traditionally, the process from order placement to delivery spanned from28 days to two months. However, with innovations like those seen in the production of Listerine mouthwash, this timeline has been drastically reduced to just seven days.

The automated Listerine manufacturing line boasts a production capacity of up to 200 bottles per minute and supports extensive customization options, offering a combination of four bottle sizes and 20 distinct formulas.

Recognized as a lighthouse manufacturer by the World Economic Forum in 2023, Kenvue's prowess in intelligent manufacturing is exemplified by its utilization of artificial intelligence to forecast market demands and the establishment of fully automated factories.

Emphasizing the unique attributes of the Chinese market, Samabhandhu highlighted the country's strong market demand and comprehensive industrial ecosystem, ensuring product availability, fostering industrial dynamism, and unlocking market potential.

Shanghai, renowned for setting market trends in consumer health, continues to inspire Kenvue in its product development endeavors, Samabhandhu added.

The company's latest venture in the city involves expanding its manufacturing capabilities for solid nonprescription drugs, with the goal of establishing a production center for nonprescription medications in the Asia Pacific region.

Upon commencement of operations, the anticipated annual production capacity is projected to double, reaching an impressive 2 billion doses.

Samabhandhu lauded the company's evolution in China as a reflection of Shanghai's robust economy, supportive policies, and favorable business environment.

Shanghai's economic vitality and wealth of talent have propelled Kenvue's rapid growth and success in the region, she said.

Sources: Shanghai Observer, Wenhui Daily