Kemin opens new European headquarters and lab in Italy to boost pet food innovation

ITALY Kemin Industries, a global leader in ingredient manufacturing, has opened a new regional headquarters and cutting-edge research laboratory for its pet food and rendering technologies business, Kemin Nutrisurance, in Veronella, Italy. 

The inauguration, held on October 9, 2025, marks a major milestone in the company’s strategy to expand its footprint and innovation capacity across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA).

The new facility, located in the heart of Verona province, represents Kemin’s ongoing commitment to investing in innovation, people, and the local community. 

It complements the company’s existing production plant and laboratory in Veronella, further consolidating the site’s role as a central hub for the company’s regional operations.

Since Kemin Nutrisurance established its European presence in 2011 with a team of just 20, the business has grown to 125 employees. The region now contributes around 30% of Kemin Nutrisurance’s global revenue and has achieved an impressive average annual growth rate of over 11% during the past five years.

“The territory has given us the strength to grow,” said Nicola Abrate, General Manager, Kemin Nutrisurance- Europe. 

“Today, we are committed to giving back by fostering innovation and attracting talent from around the world.”

Spanning 3,400 square meters, of which 1,000 are dedicated to research, the new headquarters and laboratory are designed to encourage collaboration and innovation while enhancing employee well-being. 

The project involved more than 30 local companies in its construction and development, generating value for the surrounding economy and community.

A hub for innovation and collaboration

The grand opening brought together Kemin’s global leadership, including Dr. Chris Nelson, President and CEO of Kemin Industries; Kimberly Nelson Gracia, President of Kemin Nutrisurance; and members of the Kemin Industries leadership team, alongside local authorities and community stakeholders.

“This milestone reinforces our commitment to innovation, talent development, and investment in the EMEA region’s pet food and rendering industries,” said the company in a statement.

The Veronella site will serve as both a center for product innovation and a base for regional collaboration, reflecting Kemin’s broader mission to improve the quality of life through science and nutrition sustainably. 

By establishing this advanced research and operational hub, Kemin Nutrisurance positions itself to meet the rising demand for high-quality pet food ingredients and solutions across diverse markets.

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