Unilever, the British-Dutch soap and consumer goods company, has opened its first global artificial intelligence (AI) lab in Toronto. The lab, named Horizon3 Labs, aims to accelerate the development of new AI concepts, designs, and projects. Unilever’s Chief Data Officer, Andy Hill, stated that the company is making a significant investment in AI technology and that the lab will expedite global progress and drive technology innovation.
Toronto was chosen as the location for the lab due to its strategic positioning as a hub for AI expertise in academia, start-ups, and established businesses. Unilever plans to leverage the city’s top-tier talent pool and incorporate the work done in the Toronto lab into its global operations.
Unilever’s investment in the AI lab stems from its focus on using AI to enhance productivity and efficiency. The company is already utilizing AI technology in various areas, including customer service, marketing, and logistics. For example, as the owner of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, Unilever currently operates 50,000 AI-enabled ice cream freezers that autonomously transport frozen products.
The establishment of Unilever’s AI lab in Toronto is seen as a significant milestone for the city’s tech ecosystem. Stephen Lund, CEO of investment attraction agency Toronto Global, commended the announcement and emphasized the importance of this investment for the region.
In conclusion, Unilever’s opening of its global AI lab in Toronto demonstrates its commitment to harnessing the power of AI technology. With a focus on increasing productivity and efficiency, Unilever aims to leverage Toronto’s AI expertise and incorporate the lab’s innovations into its global business. The move highlights the company’s dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in the consumer goods industry.
