Global Innovation Center (GIC)
Challenging assumptions to create shared value.
Developing game-changing solutions for enhanced consumer satisfaction, shared value, and sustainability.
We challenge ourselves to think boldly, question the status quo, and take calculated risks to spark revolutionary changes in the way seafood is procured, produced, packaged, and consumed. We know a better way is always just around the corner.
GIC’s R&D facility in Bangkok deploys unconventional investigations of seafood to:
- Enhance product quality,
nutrition and consumer satisfaction. - Accelerate our sustainability through smarter utilization of fishery resources, optimization of processes and technology, and value creation of byproducts.
- Create new corporate revenue streams from research and development tailored for new business growth.
Global footprint, local insights
Our team of industry experts stationed worldwide applies local consumer insights and market trends to emerging products,
Collaborating on Innovation
The GIC creates a mutually beneficial transfer of knowledge with external entities in Thailand and around the globe. We seek strategic innovation partnerships with institutions - private and public - around the world, while providing meaningful support and resources for start-ups. This public-private partnership supports the GIC’s rigorous scientific processes, offers universities industry exposure, maintains low costs through shared use of facilities, and builds valuable intellectual property for all involved.
The GIC’s university, research institution, NGO, and strategic corporate partners include:
- Mahidol University
- Kasetsart University
- King Mongkut of Technology Thonburi
- Chulalongkorn University
- Prince of Songkhla University
- Suranaree University of Technology
- Naresuan University of Technology
- Ratchaphat University
- Matis
- Nofima
Working under the supervision of academic advisors, eligible Thai Union employees continue their education and conduct GIC research simultaneously, ultimately earning post-graduate degrees.
A Vision Supported by Seamless Design
The GIC’s interconnected facilities include laboratories for chemistry, nutrition, and product innovation and development; a pilot factory; and office, meeting, and event spaces. The sleek, open design underscores the space’s purpose to break down barriers and foster idea generation and collaboration. The laboratories support multidisciplinary research in a well-controlled environment, utilizing glass walls to foster an open and collaborative atmosphere.
The GIC believes our staff’s combination of various backgrounds, interests, ages, genders, and ethnicities yield powerful, forward-thinking approaches and propel our success.
In 2015, the GIC’s fundamental research on tuna received funding support from the government of Thailand, making it the first private research institution to receive BOI support.
Innovation is critical to advancing Thai Union’s growth to the next level. It plays an important role in shaping the future of the company as it gives us an uncompromising competitive advantage.
Dr. Tunyawat Kasemsuwan
Global Innovation Director