Yakult establishes first global R&D Innovation Center on Wageningen Campus
Wageningen, 29 September 2025 – Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd. has chosen Plus Ultra III in Wageningen as the home for its first global R&D Innovation Center. As a leader in probiotic innovation, Yakult is expanding their international research footprint by joining the vibrant Wageningen Campus. The new centre will focus on microbiology, nutrition, and health sciences, fostering collaboration with academic and industry partners and contributing to the dynamic innovation ecosystem in Wageningen.
Ken Nishikawa, Representative of Yakult European R&D Center B.V.: “Science and innovation have always been at the heart of Yakult’s mission. Establishing our first global R&D center outside Japan in Wageningen offers a rare and valuable opportunity to collaborate directly with world-class scientists and companies in the fields of food, nutrition, and life sciences. From here, we will develop new product concepts, address diverse consumer needs, and build future growth through innovation.”
A brand-new home at Plus Ultra III
The Yakult European R&D Center will be located in Plus Ultra III, Kadans’ newest landmark buildings on Wageningen Campus. This state-of-the-art facility, which will be completed in November, offering flexible laboratories and offices designed for collaboration and interdisciplinary research. Plus Ultra III will house innovative start-ups, scale-ups, and international R&D companies, making it an inspiring environment for Yakult’s scientists and collaborators. The building will be a lively meeting space, with shared facilities that stimulate interaction between entrepreneurs, companies, and researchers.
Jasper Schipper, Commercial Manager at Kadans Science Partner, added: “We are delighted to welcome Yakult to Plus Ultra III. The building is created to foster innovation and collaboration, and Yakult’s choice for Wageningen Campus perfectly reflects that ambition. We look forward to supporting them in connecting with other tenants and partners within our international Kadans community.”
Wageningen Campus
Being part of Wageningen Campus means direct access to leading knowledge institutes such as Wageningen University & Research, as well as shared research facilities and collaborations with startups and established multinationals.
Anne Mensink, Manager Wageningen Campus & Shared Research Facilities, welcomed Yakult to the community: “Collaborative projects with researchers and students are already underway. Yakult’s presence further strengthens the knowledge base and innovation power of our campus, and we look forward to their active participation in various research programs.”
Angelique van Helvoort, senior FDI advisor Food & Health at Oost NL, emphasized the regional significance: “If we want to build a future with healthy and sustainable food, global leaders like Yakult play a key role. We are proud that Yakult has chosen Wageningen for its first global R&D center. Their expertise in probiotics and functional foods adds tremendous value to the existing ecosystem and underlines the international appeal of East Netherlands as a hub for food and health innovation.”
Yakult has established this new European R&D Center as part of a broader strategy to evolve into a truly global enterprise.
