TL;DR:
- Unilever inaugurates “Horizon3 Labs,” its first global AI lab in Toronto.
- The lab aims to accelerate AI concept and project development.
- Unilever strategically chose Toronto due to its AI expertise concentration.
- The company is investing significantly in AI to boost productivity across operations.
- Unilever currently utilizes AI in customer service, marketing, and logistics.
- The AI lab will propel renowned Unilever-owned brands like Ben and Jerry’s, Dove, and Axe.
Main AI News:
In a significant move, Unilever has inaugurated its inaugural global artificial intelligence (AI) lab, known as “Horizon3 Labs,” situated in Toronto. This strategic initiative aims to expedite the development of innovative AI concepts, designs, and projects, according to Unilever’s official statement.
Unilever’s Chief Data Officer, Andy Hill, emphasized the company’s substantial investment in AI technology across its operations and the pivotal role of the AI lab in advancing global progress in this domain. Hill stated, “The launch of Unilever’s AI lab will accelerate our global endeavors and provide a dedicated platform for technology innovation.“
Toronto was chosen as the location for this AI lab due to its strategic significance as a hub of AI expertise, encompassing academia, start-ups, and established businesses. Unilever plans to harness the exceptional talent pool available in the city’s ecosystem for its AI initiatives, underscoring the city’s strategic importance.
This move is a testament to Unilever’s commitment to leveraging AI to enhance productivity and efficiency across its business segments. The company is already integrating AI technology into various aspects of its operations, including customer service, marketing, and logistical functions.
Unilever’s forward-thinking approach is exemplified by its ownership of Ben and Jerry’s, where it currently operates a fleet of 50,000 AI-enabled ice cream freezers that autonomously manage frozen product distribution. This investment is poised to propel Unilever’s portfolio of renowned brands, including Dove, Hellmann’s, Vaseline, Degree, Axe, and TRESemmé, to new heights.
Conclusion:
Unilever’s establishment of the AI lab in Toronto signifies a proactive step in leveraging AI technology to enhance productivity and innovation. This move demonstrates Unilever’s commitment to staying at the forefront of the consumer goods market by harnessing the potential of AI across its renowned brand portfolio.
