Unilever’s New North American HQ: A Hub of Innovation and Collaboration in Hoboken

Unilever, a titan in the consumer goods sector, has officially settled into its new North American headquarters at Hoboken’s Waterfront Corporate Center. This move marks a significant step for the company, transitioning from Englewood Cliffs to a vibrant, modern workspace designed to foster collaboration and creativity.

The New Headquarters: A Modern Model of Workspaces

A Spacious Design for the Future

The new 110,000-square-foot office is more than just a workspace; it’s a strategic move towards hybrid work and collaboration. Designed by Perkins & Will, the space spans three floors and accommodates over 1,100 employees across various business units. Key features include:

• Floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering breathtaking views of New York City.
• A European-style professional kitchen for Unilever Food Solutions, enhancing culinary creativity with ingredients from its popular brands like Knorr and Hellmann’s.
• A full-service salon, where employees can get pampered with products from Dove, TRESemme, and Nexxus.

Moreover, the office is equipped with wellness spaces, mothers’ rooms, and community hubs designed for live collaboration and innovation. Emphasizing sustainability, the headquarters boasts LED lighting, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and low-flow water fixtures.

Leadership Vision

Herrish Patel, President of Unilever USA, highlighted the importance of this move, stating: “A business has two things: brands and people. Everything else is just process.” He expressed pride in establishing this space, designed to unlock the potential of employees, where they can feel inspired and make an impact in the U.S. marketplace.

Why Hoboken? A Cultural Catalyst

Proximity to Culture and Innovation

Patel elaborated on the reasoning behind choosing Hoboken: “We wanted proximity to where trends and culture come alive; this is where we unite and write the stories of this company for the next 10 years.” The area’s bustling environment aligns perfectly with the social-first marketing approach Unilever aims to cultivate.

• Instagrammable moments and TikTok-ready settings are crucial for brands in today’s market, and Hoboken offers the perfect backdrop for these interactions.
• The ability to network and bond informally is also key to building a successful company culture. Patel emphasized that the best companies thrive on these informal relationships, creating spaces for employees to enjoy time together beyond work.

Attracting Talent

The Mile Square City’s transit accessibility and walkability further enhance its appeal to both current and prospective employees, especially those commuting from New York City.

A Lasting Commitment

While Unilever moves its North American HQ, the company is not entirely leaving Englewood Cliffs. Its research and development team will maintain operations at their existing campus, ensuring a continued focus on innovation.

Sustainability Goals

Patel underscored the importance of not just leadership within the company but also creating a sustainable future. The new headquarters aims to reflect Unilever’s commitment to environmental stewardship, further aligning with Hoboken’s values and standards for progressive development.

A Celebration of New Beginnings

On June 5, 2025, dignitaries, including California’s Governor Phil Murphy and Hoboken’s Mayor Ravi Bhalla, celebrated Unilever’s arrival in Hudson County. Murphy remarked on the significance of Unilever’s choice to call New Jersey home, referencing its role as a diversity champion and international presence.

He stated, “Unilever’s presence here is a badge of honor; it demonstrates who we are as a state.” Bhalla added that Unilever’s move is a powerful vote of confidence in Hoboken’s future, reinforcing the city’s position as a hub for business and innovation.

Economic Impact

The arrival of Unilever is expected to generate hundreds of jobs and strengthen the local economy by supporting restaurants, retailers, and various service providers. As Hoboken continues to evolve, both leaders and residents are excited about how this corporate presence will contribute to the city’s cultural landscape.

The Bigger Picture: A Community of Giants

Unilever joins other prominent corporations at the Waterfront Corporate Center, including Hain Celestial, Walmart, and Thomson Reuters, transforming Hoboken into a prime destination for innovative consumer brands. SJP Properties, the developers of the center, have positioned Hoboken as a North American office destination for global brands due to its accessibility and professional workforce.

Conclusion: Hoboken’s Bright Future with Unilever

As we witness Unilever’s transformation and the optimistic tone surrounding its new headquarters, it’s clear that Hoboken is not just a place for business—it represents a community of diversity, innovation, and growth. With Unilever setting the stage, the future looks promising for both the city and the global brand, reinforcing the idea that great companies thrive where culture meets opportunity.

To learn more about Unilever’s vast portfolio including brands like Ben & Jerry’s, Dove, and more, visit their official website.