JBT Marel unveils renovated Customer Innovation Center in Lakeland, Florida
JBT Marel, a global leader in advanced automation for the food and beverage industry, has unveiled the newly renovated Customer Innovation Center (CIC) in Lakeland, Florida. The facility now serves as JBT Marel’s premier destination for testing and scaling sustainable food technologies, spanning fresh produce, ready meals, beverages, and dairy products.
The Lakeland CIC joins a network of global centers where customers collaborate with JBT Marel experts to run products through live equipment, address efficiency and quality challenges, and evaluate regulatory compliance. The renovated facility includes new microbiology, analytical, and wet chemistry labs, allowing in-house assessment of product integrity, safety, and packaging. These capabilities enable accelerated innovation and informed decision-making without the need for third-party testing or facility downtime.
Visitors can also take advantage of a modernized, all-glass second-level lounge overlooking the production floor and a virtual reality Immersive Space to experience operational workflows. The CIC now features three bays with expanded equipment lines for private demonstrations, training, and collaborative sessions tailored to customer requirements.
As an FDA- and USDA-recognized process authority, JBT Marel provides validation of processing parameters and regulatory compliance support. The renovated Lakeland CIC reinforces the company’s mission to advance sustainable food production while supporting the local economy. Customers can schedule live or virtual consultations and hands-on training sessions without disrupting ongoing production.
According to Brian Deck, CEO of JBT Marel, the Customer Innovation Centers enable customers “to test, validate, and scale technologies that help feed the world more responsibly.” Patrick Canning, Lakeland General Manager, noted that the renovation underscores both elevated customer guidance and continued investment in the local community.